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Q: Is the novel coronavirus like the common cold?

There are about four strains of [coronavirus](https://www.niaid.nih.gov/diseases-conditions/coronaviruses) that cause about 20% of the cases of common cold. However, the COVID-19 virus can cause severe illness because it [travels](https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/how-coronaviruses-cause-infection-from-colds-to-deadly-pneumonia1/) deep into the respiratory tract and infects the lungs. This deep infection can make a person more susceptible for pneumonia. About 80% of the cases of COVID-19 are mild but those with compromised immune systems and the elderly are at greater risk. Drafted 16 March 2020

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Is the novel coronavirus like the common cold?

There are about four strains of coronavirus that cause about 20% of the cases of common cold. However, the COVID-19 virus can cause severe illness because it travels deep into the respiratory tract and infects the lungs. This deep infection can make a person more susceptible for pneumonia. About 80% of the cases of COVID-19 are mild but those with compromised immune systems and the elderly are at greater risk.

Drafted 16 March 2020