Coronavirus: An Overview

A coronavirus is a common type of infection that affects the nose, sinuses and upper throat. It frequently produces upper respiratory symptoms, including a stuffy nose, cough and sore throat.

Coronaviruses were first identified in the 1960s, but their origin is still unknown. Their name comes from their crown-like shape. Although rare, a coronavirus can infect both animals and people.

See also: Psychosis: meaning, symptoms, diagnosis, causes, treatment and types

Most coronaviruses spread in the same way as other cold-causing viruses: through coughs and sneezes from infected people, by touching the hands or face of an infected person, or by handling objects such as doorknobs that infected people have touched. Nearly everyone will contract a coronavirus at least once, probably as a child. In the United States, these infections are more common in the fall and winter, but anyone can become ill at any time.

Typical Coronavirus Symptoms

The symptoms of most coronaviruses resemble those of other upper respiratory infections: runny nose, cough, sore throat and sometimes fever. In most cases, a person will not know whether a coronavirus or another cold-causing virus, such as rhinovirus, is responsible.

Laboratory testing — cultures from the nose and throat, plus blood tests — can reveal whether a coronavirus caused a cold. There is little reason to seek them, however, because the results would not change how the symptoms are treated, and they generally clear up within a few days.

If a coronavirus infects the lower respiratory tract — the windpipe and lungs — it can cause pneumonia. This is especially a concern for older adults, people with cardiovascular disease and those with weakened immune systems.

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Preventing and Treating Coronavirus

No vaccine exists for coronavirus. To reduce the risk of infection, follow the same precautions used against the common cold:

  • Wash hands well with warm water and soap, or apply an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
  • Keep hands and fingers away from the eyes, nose and mouth.
  • Avoid close contact with infected people.

Treatment follows the same approach as for a cold:

  • Get plenty of rest.
  • Drink fluids.
  • Take over-the-counter medicine for sore throat and fever. Do not give aspirin to children or teenagers younger than 19; use ibuprofen or acetaminophen instead.

Duration of Coronavirus Symptoms

Cold- or flu-like symptoms usually appear two to four days after coronavirus infection and are generally moderate.

Coronavirus Severity and Risks

Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS), caused by a type of coronavirus, emerged in 2012 and is among the infections that have raised concern. A MERS infection can lead to fever, a cough and breathlessness, and is especially dangerous for older people, those with weakened immune systems and people with other medical conditions.

Coronavirus Transmission

Like other coronaviruses, MERS-CoV is thought most likely to pass between people through respiratory secretions, for example when an infected person coughs. Transmission has also occurred in health care settings, including medical facilities, from infected patients to other people.

How Common Are Coronaviruses?

Coronaviruses are found throughout the world and can infect people and animals. Several different types can infect humans and cause illness, usually producing upper respiratory tract disease of moderate severity. Some coronaviruses, however, can cause severe illness.

Can People Get Coronavirus from Dogs?

Dogs usually pick up canine coronavirus by mouth after contact with infected feces. A dog may also become infected by eating from contaminated food bowls or through direct contact with an infected dog. Crowded, unhygienic conditions facilitate transmission of coronavirus.

Can People Get Coronavirus from Cats?

People cannot contract these illnesses from cats because the diseases are feline-specific. FIV (feline immunodeficiency virus), often called feline AIDS, damages a cat’s lymphatic system and eventually attacks its entire immune system.

Diagnosing Coronavirus

A doctor may order laboratory tests on respiratory specimens and serum, a component of blood, to detect human coronaviruses. Laboratory testing is more likely to be used when a patient has severe illness or is suspected of having MERS.

A humidifier or a steamy shower can also help soothe a sore, scratchy throat. While MERS and SARS are caused by coronaviruses in other countries, the type typically found in the United States is not a serious risk for an otherwise healthy adult. Anyone who becomes ill should treat the symptoms and contact a doctor if they worsen or fail to resolve.

Further Reading