SARS-CoV-2 is the virus that causes COVID-19. It's a type of coronavirus, which is a family of viruses named for the crown-like spikes on their surfaces.
Think of SARS-CoV-2 as the villain in a movie. Just like how every villain has its unique characteristics and powers, this virus has its own unique structure and ability to cause disease (COVID-19).
Coronavirus: Coronaviruses are types of viruses that typically affect the respiratory tract of mammals, including humans. They are associated with common colds and more severe diseases such as SARS and MERS.
COVID-19: COVID-19 is the disease caused by the novel coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2. It was first identified in December 2019 in Wuhan, China.
Pandemic: An epidemic occurring worldwide or over a very wide area crossing international boundaries and usually affecting a large number of people.
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