Check out new microscopic images of the fatal novel coronavirus

In an unprecedented attempt to contain the disease, the Chinese government has placed the hardest-hit cities — home to more than 60 million — under lockdown. Many countries including India, Australia, US have placed travel restrictions to China including visa restrictions as many air carriers have reduced or suspended routes to and from the country. Health and other concerned ministries in nations around the world have stepped up their efforts to curb the spread of the deadly virus. (Photo | NIAID - RML)

The spikes on the outer edge of its surface is what gives the coronavirus its name, crown-like. (Photo | NIAID - RML)

There is no specific treatment or vaccine against the virus, which can cause respiratory failure. The head of the World Health Organisation warned the novel coronavirus (named COVID-19) was a 'very grave threat' for the world. (Photo | NIAID - RML)

The symptoms of coronavirus infection can range from a simple cough with fever or shortness of breath to serious infection, such as bronchitis or pneumonia. It spreads through transmission from one person to another through droplets while coughing and sneezing from an infected person. These droplets can stay on fomites like door handle, metro seats etc for four to five days. (Photo | NIAID - RML)