SARS-CoV-2 Test

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SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19, is part of the coronavirus family, which includes pathogens that cause common colds and severe illnesses like MERS and SARS. The name SARS-CoV-2 stands for Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 due to its genetic similarities to the coronavirus responsible for the SARS outbreak in 2003.

This virus is characterized by its spherical shape adorned with spike-like proteins that protrude from its surface, giving it a distinctive crown-like appearance, hence the name "corona." These spike proteins are crucial for the virus as they facilitate entry into human cells by binding to the ACE2 receptor. The primary transmission mode is through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks.

The outbreak of COVID-19 began in Wuhan, China, in December 2019 and rapidly spread worldwide, leading to an ongoing global pandemic. Symptoms range from mild respiratory symptoms to severe acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), with some cases resulting in death, particularly in older adults and those with underlying health conditions.