Coronavirus Infections Summary Coronaviruses are common viruses that most people get some time in their life. They are common throughout the world, and they can infect people and animals. Several different coronaviruses can infect people and make them sick. They usually cause mild to moderate upper-respiratory illness. But, some coronaviruses can cause severe illness. Coronaviruses probably spread through the air by coughing or sneezing, or by close personal contact. If you get infected, symptoms may include Runny nose Cough Sore throat Fever You may be able to reduce your risk of infection by washing your hands often with soap and water, not touching your eyes, nose, or mouth, and avoiding close contact with people who are sick. There is no vaccine to prevent coronavirus infection. There are no specific treatments. You can relieve symptoms with pain and fever medicines and rest. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases Start Here About Coronavirus Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Coronaviruses (MERS and SARS) National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases Find an Expert Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Centers for Disease Control and Prevention National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases World Health Organization World Health Organization Clinical Trials ClinicalTrials.gov: Coronavirus Infections National Institutes of Health Specifics Frequently Asked Questions on Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS‐CoV) World Health Organization Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) Centers for Disease Control and Prevention SARS Basics Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Prevention and Risk Factors Handwashing: Clean Hands Save Lives Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Statistics and Research MERS in the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Array Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) Severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) Journal Articles Coronavirus Infections Related Issues SARS Patients and Their Close Contacts Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Travelers’ Health: MERS in the Arabian Peninsula Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
