What is the coronavirus and where did it originate?

What is?

Coronavirus is a group of viruses that cause illnesses ranging from the common cold to more serious illnesses such as pneumonia, Middle East respiratory syndrome, and severe acute respiratory syndrome. Notably, the coronavirus strain that has caused the outbreak in China is new and previously unknown.

Although it should be noted that it is different from COVID-19 which is the infectious disease caused by the coronavirus that has been discovered more recently. Both were unknown before the outbreak broke out in Wuhan, China, in December 2019.

How originated?

On December 31, 2019, the World Health Organization (WHO) received reports of the presence of pneumonia, of unknown origin, in the city of Wuhan, in China. Quickly, in early January, the authorities of this country identified the cause as a new strain of coronavirus. The disease has been spreading to other continents such as Asia, Europe and America. but the possible animal origin of COVID-19 has not been confirmed.

how is it spread and how to avoid it

This virus is spread from person to person, therefore, the best way to avoid contracting this virus is by following good hygiene practices that include: 

1.Stay away from sick people 

2.don't touch your face 

3. Maintain a minimum distance of one meter from other people. (Social distancing) 

4.Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly for at least 20 seconds

5. wear a mask