Coronavirus: How it spreads

CHICAGO (WLS) -- Simply put, a virus is an organism that carries genetic information, causing infection and sometimes disease. It needs a host, like a person or animal, to survive.

Viruses you may have heard of include Influenza, West Nile Virus, Zika Virus and most recently, Coronavirus.

SYMPTOMS TYPICALLY INCLUDE:

- Fever

- Aches

- Chills

- Fatigue

- Coughing

- Sneezing

- Headache

You can get a virus in a variety of ways: through touch, the exchange of bodily fluid, from contaminated food and water or from infected insects or animals.

HOW YOU CAN STAY SAFE:

- Wash your hands frequently

- Cover your mouth or nose when you sneeze or cough

- Stay away from infected people

- If applicable, get vaccinated