Virus reported to have originated in China’s Wuhan has killed more than 957,000 people and infected over 30 million.
As of September 20, the global death toll surpassed 957,000 amid more than 30.8 million cases. Over 21 million people have recovered from the disease worldwide, according to the data collected by the Johns Hopkins University in the United States.
What is a coronavirus?
The coronavirus family causes illnesses ranging from the common cold to more severe diseases such as severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) and Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS), according to the WHO.
They circulate in animals and some can be transmitted between animals and humans. Several coronaviruses are circulating in animals that have not yet infected humans.
The new coronavirus, the seventh known to affect humans, has been named COVID-19.
What are the symptoms?
Common signs of infection include fever, coughing and breathing difficulties. In severe cases, it can cause pneumonia, multiple organ failure and death.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the new coronavirus outbreak, which originated in Wuhan, China, a pandemic.
As of September 20, the global death toll surpassed 957,000 amid more than 30.8 million cases. Over 21 million people have recovered from the disease worldwide, according to the data collected by the Johns Hopkins University in the United States.
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Infected patients can be also asymptomatic, meaning they do not display any symptoms despite having the virus in their systems.
Where did it come from?
China alerted the WHO to cases of unusual pneumonia in Wuhan on December 31.
COVID-19 is thought to have originated in a seafood market where wildlife was sold illegally.
On February 7, Chinese researchers said the virus could have spread from an infected animal to humans through illegally trafficked pangolins, prized in Asia for food and medicine.
Scientists have pointed to either bats or snakes as possible sources.
Maintain “physical distancing” – keeping at least 1 metre (three feet) between yourself and others – particularly if they are coughing and sneezing, and avoid touching your face, eyes and mouth with unwashed hands.
Note:-
Avoid unnecessary, unprotected contact with animals and be sure to thoroughly wash hands after contact.
