Coronaviruses

Definitions & Key takeaways

Coronavirus consists of a family of enveloped, single-stranded RNA viruses known to cause respiratory illness in humans. Symptoms of coronavirus infection include fever, cough, and shortness of breath. These viruses are believed to spread through contact with an infected person's secretions, such as saliva or mucus. It can also be spread through close contact with an infected animal, such as wild animals.