SARS-CoV-2 / COVID-19

Since the end of 2019, a novel virus that can cause respiratory diseases and pneumonia has been spreading worldwide. The pathogen SARS-CoV-2 belongs to the coronavirus family and is closely related to the SARS virus, which caused a pandemic in 2002. Here we will keep you informed about current developments in research and provide answers to the most important questions.

Scanning electron microscope image of SARS-CoV-2.
Scanning electron microscope image of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. The virus particles emerge from the surface of cells cultured in the lab. © NIAID-RML

Researchers at the HZI make statements on the topic of coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 and provide assessments of the situation.

Coronavirus

Electron micrograph of coronaviruses in black an white.

The coronaviruses are a family of viruses that includes a series of very different pathogens. These viruses usually infect mammals, rodents, and birds, but only few coronaviruses adapted to humans. They did this with great success: About one third of all typical "common colds" and some cases of diarrhoea as well are caused by these RNA Viruses, which are the largest of their kind. [more]

Interview

Dr Peggy Riese, scientist in the Department “Vaccinology and Applied Microbiology” at HZI, talks in an interview about current developments in SARS-CoV-2 vaccine research. [more]

Support

With your donation to the HZI you directly support innovative coronavirus research projects that contribute to solutions for the containment of the virus and the identification of possible therapies. [more]

Involved research groups

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