Wuhan coronavirus (2019-nCoV)
Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS)
Severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS)
Common cold caused by coronavirus
Origin First reported in December 2019 in Wuhan, China. First reported in 2012 in Saudi Arabia. First reported in 2002 in southern China. Four coronavirus strains are thought to be responsible for 15-30% of common colds.
Transmission Likely from touching or eating an infected, as yet unidentified animal. Human-to-human transmission occurs through close contact. Often from touching infected camels or consuming their milk or meat. Limited transmission between humans through close contact. Believed to have spread from bats, which infected civets.Transmitted mainly between humans through close contact. Close contact with infected humans or touching a surface that carries the virus.
Cases Around 500 confirmed; 17 deaths as of Jan. 22. Some victims were older males with preexisting conditions. 2,494 confirmed cases; 858 deaths (as of Nov. 30, 2019). Mortality rate of 34%. 8,098 cases; 774 deaths. Mortality rate of about 10%. Millions each year. Generally nonlethal with rare exceptions.
Current status Cases reported mainly in Wuhan, as well as other parts of China and Asia. One case reported in U.S. All cases linked to Arabian Peninsula, with 80% in Saudi Arabia. Others in about two dozen countries, including U.S. Cases and deaths have been declining since 2016. No new cases reported since 2004. 87% of previous cases in China and Hong Kong. Circulates year-round, but more common in fall/winter.

Notes

Cases as of Jan. 22.