Understanding the clinical and chest CT imaging characteristics of COVID-19 can help radiologists detect and assess the progression of COVID-19 pneumonia early. The clinical manifestations of COVID-19 are non-specific, and combining epidemiological features, such as exposure history in Wuhan or close contact with confirmed cases, can aid in diagnosis. Typical chest CT findings include multiple ground glass opacities (GGO) with patchy consolidation, often distributed peripherally, particularly in the posterior or lower lobes of the lungs. The number, extent, and density of GGOs on chest CT increase with disease progression. Chest thin-slice CT plays a crucial role in early detection, monitoring, and evaluation of the disease. This review focuses on the etiology, epidemiology, and clinical symptoms of COVID-19, while emphasizing the role of chest CT in its control and prevention.Understanding the clinical and chest CT imaging characteristics of COVID-19 can help radiologists detect and assess the progression of COVID-19 pneumonia early. The clinical manifestations of COVID-19 are non-specific, and combining epidemiological features, such as exposure history in Wuhan or close contact with confirmed cases, can aid in diagnosis. Typical chest CT findings include multiple ground glass opacities (GGO) with patchy consolidation, often distributed peripherally, particularly in the posterior or lower lobes of the lungs. The number, extent, and density of GGOs on chest CT increase with disease progression. Chest thin-slice CT plays a crucial role in early detection, monitoring, and evaluation of the disease. This review focuses on the etiology, epidemiology, and clinical symptoms of COVID-19, while emphasizing the role of chest CT in its control and prevention.