COVID-19 is the infectious disease caused by the most recently discovered coronavirus. Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses that may cause illness in animals or humans. In humans, several coronaviruses are known to cause respiratory infections ranging from the common cold to more severe diseases like COVID-19. COVID-19 illness ranges from mild to severe, though for some it can be deadly. Symptoms usually start 2-14 days after infection. They may include fever, cough, and shortness of breath.