Coronaviruses are a family of viruses that infect a wide range of animals, including humans, causing various diseases. The first human coronaviruses, HCoV-OC43 and HCoV-229E, were considered common causes of the common cold. However, the emergence of SARS-CoV in 2003, which caused severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS), brought coronaviruses into global attention. SARS-CoV is a highly contagious virus that spreads through close contact and can cause severe respiratory illness. It was first identified in humans in 2002 and spread globally via international travel, resulting in 8,098 cases and 774 deaths. The World Health Organization (WHO) declared the outbreak over in 2003, but SARS-CoV has since been re-emerged in several cases. SARS-CoV is primarily found in bats and can be transmitted to humans through live-animal markets. It has a long incubation period and can cause severe respiratory distress, with a high mortality rate. The virus is shed in respiratory secretions, feces, and urine, and can survive for several days in certain environments. Diagnosis of SARS-CoV is challenging, and laboratory testing is often used. There is no vaccine or specific treatment for SARS-CoV, and supportive care is the mainstay of treatment. Other coronaviruses, such as MERS-CoV, have also emerged as significant pathogens. These viruses are associated with severe respiratory illness and have a high fatality rate. Coronaviruses are classified into different genera and species, with SARS-CoV and MERS-CoV being among the most concerning. The virus has a large RNA genome and a unique structure with surface projections visible under electron microscopy. The clinical features of SARS include fever, cough, and respiratory distress, with a high mortality rate in severe cases. Pathological changes in the lungs are characterized by diffuse alveolar damage, which varies depending on the duration of illness. The diagnosis of SARS is based on clinical symptoms, epidemiological history, and laboratory testing. Prevention and control measures include early detection, isolation, and infection control. The global community remains vigilant for the potential re-emergence of SARS-CoV, as the conditions that allowed its transmission still exist.Coronaviruses are a family of viruses that infect a wide range of animals, including humans, causing various diseases. The first human coronaviruses, HCoV-OC43 and HCoV-229E, were considered common causes of the common cold. However, the emergence of SARS-CoV in 2003, which caused severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS), brought coronaviruses into global attention. SARS-CoV is a highly contagious virus that spreads through close contact and can cause severe respiratory illness. It was first identified in humans in 2002 and spread globally via international travel, resulting in 8,098 cases and 774 deaths. The World Health Organization (WHO) declared the outbreak over in 2003, but SARS-CoV has since been re-emerged in several cases. SARS-CoV is primarily found in bats and can be transmitted to humans through live-animal markets. It has a long incubation period and can cause severe respiratory distress, with a high mortality rate. The virus is shed in respiratory secretions, feces, and urine, and can survive for several days in certain environments. Diagnosis of SARS-CoV is challenging, and laboratory testing is often used. There is no vaccine or specific treatment for SARS-CoV, and supportive care is the mainstay of treatment. Other coronaviruses, such as MERS-CoV, have also emerged as significant pathogens. These viruses are associated with severe respiratory illness and have a high fatality rate. Coronaviruses are classified into different genera and species, with SARS-CoV and MERS-CoV being among the most concerning. The virus has a large RNA genome and a unique structure with surface projections visible under electron microscopy. The clinical features of SARS include fever, cough, and respiratory distress, with a high mortality rate in severe cases. Pathological changes in the lungs are characterized by diffuse alveolar damage, which varies depending on the duration of illness. The diagnosis of SARS is based on clinical symptoms, epidemiological history, and laboratory testing. Prevention and control measures include early detection, isolation, and infection control. The global community remains vigilant for the potential re-emergence of SARS-CoV, as the conditions that allowed its transmission still exist.