As the coronavirus pandemic continues to grow and evolve — the US has the world’s largest outbreak, with more than 331,000 people infected, while Italy has recorded more deaths than any other country — researchers are scrambling to learn about the virus and recommend effective responses.
Typical coronavirus patients develop a fever, dry cough, or shortness of breath, but these symptoms may appear at different times — or not at all. Severe cases tend to worsen about five to 10 days after symptoms start.
The virus’ average incubation period is about five days, but can range anywhere from two to 14 days, according to the CDC. It’s likely that people can still pass the virus on to others during this time. Research shows the average infected person spreads the virus to about 2.2 others.
Many governments have declared nationwide lockdowns or otherwise dramatically restricted travel, affecting hundreds of millions of people. A third of the world is under some form of lockdown.
Dr. Anthony Fauci, America’s top infectious-disease expert, predicted on March 29 that the US would have “millions of cases” and more than 100,000 coronavirus-related deaths. He also said, however, that coronavirus lockdowns could be lifted in a “matter of weeks,” depending on the availability of 15-minute coronavirus tests.
COVID-19 spread globally
United States
Here’s what we know.
