What is the new coronavirus from China?

The coronavirus is a sort of virus, a tiny infectious germ.

Under a microscope, it looks as if these viruses are surrounded by a small crown. Hence their name: coronavirus!

They mainly infect the nose and the lungs. Some people may just catch a simple cold, but others can be seriously ill.

So how do you catch a coronavirus?

They are spread through the air. When an infected person coughs or sneezes, they can contaminate those around them.

We can also catch the virus by touching someone who’s just blown their nose!

Coronaviruses are very contagious. Like the one that appeared in the Chinese city of Wuhan in early 2020.

In just a few weeks, thousands of Chinese people were contaminated, and hundreds died.

To limit the contagion, Chinese authorities ordered everyone to wear a face mask.

Scientists think that this new coronavirus originally came from bats, who then infected another animal.

This animal was probably sold in a seafood market and … so contaminated a human! Who then contaminated other humans!

This new coronavirus from China is deadly. That’s why countries all around the world are on high alert to protect their populations.

How? By isolating those who are sick and checking all those who came near them. It’s the best way to avoid an epidemic!