What specifically is it?

In short, it has a high genetic mutation rate and can rapidly develop resistance to new drugs. It stems from a chain of various diseases. These diseases consisting of the common cold, Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS).

 

What are the symptoms?

People essentially display pneumonia-like symptoms, which consist of mainly a fever and breathing difficulties. So please… if you have one of these symptoms, please go straight to your GP.

 

Tips to reduce your risk of the infection

• Wash hands with soap & water, or alcohol-based hand soap
• Cover your nose and mouth when coughing and sneezing
• Make sure to throw out tissues, into a closed bin, immediately after use
• Avoid close contact with anyone who has a cold or flu-like symptoms
• Avoid spitting in public
• Thoroughly cook meat and eggs, & use different chopping boards and knives for raw meat and cooked foods
• Do not go near wild or farm animals without protection
• If you have a fever, cough and/or difficulty breathing, seek medical care early and share previous travel history with your health care provider
• If you choose to wear a face mask, be sure to cover your mouth and nose, and avoid touching the mask once it’s on. AFTER USE, immediately discard the mask after each use and wash your hands after removing it

(From the World Health Organization)