Coronaviruses
Coronaviruses are a large group of viruses that can cause mild to serious respiratory illness.
Most people get a coronavirus infection at some point in their lives — often as a common cold. Young children are at higher risk for infection.
Some types, like COVID-19, SARS and MERS, can cause more serious disease.
Types of Coronaviruses
How Coronaviruses Spread
Coronaviruses usually spread through:
- Coughing and sneezing
- Close personal contact, like hugging or shaking hands
- Touching surfaces with the virus and then touching your eyes, nose or mouth
How to Protect Yourself and Others
There are currently no vaccines for most coronaviruses except COVID-19.
You can lower your risk:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth
- Stay away from people who are sick
If you’re sick:
- Stay home and rest
- Cover your coughs and sneezes
- Clean and disinfect shared surfaces
- Drink plenty of fluids
Learn how to keep illness from spreading and what to do if you feel sick.
Testing and Treatment
Lab tests can confirm a coronavirus infection.
Most people get better on their own. You can:
- Take medicine for fever or pain (do not give aspirin to children)
- Use a humidifier or take a warm shower to ease cough and sore throat
If you have COVID-19 and are more likely to get very sick, medications are available that can reduce your risk of hospitalization and death. Don't delay: Treatments must be started within 5-7 days after you first develop symptoms to be effective.
If your symptoms get worse or you're worried, see your health care provider.
More Resources
More information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
This page was last modified on 11/18/2025