As the coronavirus outbreak evolves, we answer some key questions
As a new coronavirus that has infected tens of thousands around the world continues to spread, scientists and public health officials are racing to understand the virus and stop the growing public health crisis. In this rapidly evolving situation, many unknowns remain. Here’s what we know so far about the new virus — called severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, or SARS-CoV-2 — and the disease that it causes. We will update these answers as more information becomes available. Do you have questions about the new coronavirus that you’d like answered? E-mail them to feedback@sciencenews.org. Some of the questions below include: What is SARS-CoV-2?Why are experts so worried about it?How deadly is it? Who’s most at risk? What about young children?How do people die from it?Can people who have had the virus be reinfected?What’s the situation in the United States?What can I do to prepare?Does hand sanitizer actually work?Why aren’t masks recommended for protection?What should...