The first case of the previously unknown type of coronavirus virus was first detected in Wuhan, a city in China, in December 2019. This virus has now infected thousands of people and claimed a lot of lives. This fast-spreading infection causes pneumonia-like symptoms and results in fatal complications.

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This virus is being called 2019-nCoV (2019 novel coronavirus) and is a new strain of coronavirus. It belongs to the same group of viruses that caused the severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) outbreak in 2002 and the Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS) in 2012.

Thousands of people have been affected by this virus in China, with Hubei province being the worst affected. It is rapidly spreading to other countries like France, the US, Thailand, Vietnam, Taiwan, Singapore, Japan, and Nepal. WHO (World Health Organisation) has estimated a rise in the number of cases, and the Chinese government is taking a lot of measures to prevent the spread of this virus. WHO has not yet classed this virus as an international emergency, as the number of cases overseas are less. 

Origin:
The virus is believed to have originated in the seafood market in Wuhan in the Hubei province. As a result, more than 500 cases have been recorded so far in this area.

Symptoms of China Coronavirus:
Coronaviruses mainly cause respiratory symptoms. Some of the common symptoms of this new virus are:

• Sneezing.
• Shortness of breath.
• Breathing difficulties.
• Headaches.
• Cough.
• Pneumonia.
• Severe acute respiratory failure.
• Kidney failure.
• Fever.

The symptoms usually start with a fever and sneezing, which is followed by a dry cough and shortness of breath within a week. It quickly progresses to pneumonia, severe acute respiratory failure, kidney failure, and death.

Risk Factors:
Older adults (people above 50 years) with a pre-existing chronic condition, such as diabetes, heart problems, or Parkinson’s, are more susceptible.

Ways to reduce the risk of infection:

• Frequently wash your hands with soap and water or use alcohol-based hand sanitizers.
• When you cough or sneeze, cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your elbow.
• Stay away from people who have cold or flu-like symptoms.
• Avoid eating raw meat and eggs.
• Wear masks if you work with wild or farm animals.
• Wear protective masks while going out.

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