The virus primarily spreads between people in a similar way to influenza, via respiratory droplets produced during coughing or sneezing.^[7][11][12] The time between exposure and symptom onset is typically five days, but may range from two to fourteen days.^[12][13] Symptoms may include fever, cough, and shortness of breath.^[12][13] Complications may include pneumonia and acute respiratory distress syndrome. There is currently no vaccine or specific antiviral treatment, though research is ongoing. Efforts are aimed at managing symptoms and supportive therapy. Recommended preventive measures include hand washing, maintaining distance from people who are sick, and monitoring and self-isolation for fourteen days for people who suspect they are infected.^[11][12]

Public health responses in China and around the world have included travel restrictions, quarantines, and curfews. These have included the lockdown of Hubei and various curfew measures in China; the quarantine of a British cruise ship Diamond Princess in Japanese waters; as well as lockdowns in Italy.^[14][15][16] Some airports and train stations have instituted screening methods such as temperature checks and health declaration forms.^[17] Several countries have issued advisories warning against travel to regions with ongoing community transmission, such as Central China, Italy and Iran.^{[18][19][20][21][22]}