Coronavirus Quiz | General Knowledge Questions on Coronavirus | Covid-19 FAQ

1.      What is the official name of the disease caused by the novel coronavirus?

The official name of the disease caused by the novel coronavirus is “Coronavirus Disease 2019” or “Covid-19” for short.

2.      How is the virus that causes Covid-19 officially designated?

The virus that causes Covid-19 is officially designated as “Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2” or “SARS-CoV-2” for short.

3.      What is the taxonomic classification of the virus that causes Covid-19?

SARS-CoV-2 is a member of the family Coronaviridae, subfamily Orthocoronavirinae, genus Betacoronavirus.

4.      What are the common symptoms of Covid-19?

Common symptoms of Covid-19 include fever, cough, shortness of breath, loss of taste or smell, and body aches.

5.      How is the virus that causes Covid-19 transmitted?

The virus that causes Covid-19 is primarily transmitted through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It can also be transmitted by touching a surface or object contaminated with the virus and then touching one’s face.

6.      How does the virus that causes Covid-19 differ from other coronaviruses?

SARS-CoV-2 is a novel coronavirus, meaning it has not been previously identified in humans. It is most closely related to bat coronaviruses, but has several genetic mutations that distinguish it from other coronaviruses.

7.      What is the official disease code for Covid-19 according to the International Classification of Diseases (ICD)?

The official disease code for Covid-19 according to the International Classification of Diseases (ICD) is “U07.1”

8.      What is the genetic material of SARS-CoV-2?

The genetic material of SARS-CoV-2 is RNA (ribonucleic acid).

9.      How does SARS-CoV-2 enter host cells?

SARS-CoV-2 enters host cells by binding to the ACE2 receptor on the surface of the cell, and then using its spike protein to fuse with the cell membrane.

10.  What are the structural proteins of SARS-CoV-2?

The structural proteins of SARS-CoV-2 include the spike (S) protein, envelope (E) protein, membrane (M) protein, and nucleocapsid (N) protein.

11.  How does SARS-CoV-2 replicate within host cells?

Once inside the host cell, SARS-CoV-2 uses the host cell’s machinery to replicate its genetic material and produce new viral particles.

12.  What is the function of the spike protein in SARS-CoV-2?

The spike protein of SARS-CoV-2 binds to the ACE2 receptor on host cells, allowing the virus to enter and infect the cell.

13.  How does the human immune system respond to SARS-CoV-2?

The human immune system responds to SARS-CoV-2 by producing antibodies and activating T-cells to target and neutralize the virus.

14.  What are the genetic variations of SARS-CoV-2?

SARS-CoV-2 has several genetic variations that have emerged, including the Alpha, Beta, Gamma, Delta and Omicron Variants.

15.  How does the genetic variation of SARS-CoV-2 affect the disease course?

The genetic variation of SARS-CoV-2 can affect the severity of the disease, the efficacy of vaccines, and the ability of the virus to evade the immune system.

16.  How does SARS-CoV-2 evade the host immunity?

SARS-CoV-2 can evade the host immunity by mutating its spike protein, which allows it to bind to the ACE2 receptor more efficiently and avoid recognition by antibodies.

17.  How does the genetic variation of SARS-CoV-2 affect the diagnostic tests?

The genetic variation of SARS-CoV-2 may affect the diagnostic tests by making them less sensitive or specific. This is why diagnostic tests need to be updated frequently to account for the genetic variations.

18.  What are SARS-CoV-2 variants?

SARS-CoV-2 variants are different genetic forms of the virus that causes Covid-19. They can have changes in their spike protein and other genetic regions that can affect the virus’ transmissibility, virulence, and vaccine efficacy.

19.  How do SARS-CoV-2 variants emerge?

SARS-CoV-2 variants emerge as a result of genetic mutations that occur as the virus replicates in human hosts. These mutations can accumulate over time, leading to the emergence of distinct genetic forms of the virus.

20.  How do scientists identify SARS-CoV-2 variants?

Scientists identify SARS-CoV-2 variants by sequencing the viral genome of positive samples, and then comparing the genetic sequences to those of known variants.

21.  What are some examples of SARS-CoV-2 variants?

Some examples of SARS-CoV-2 variants include Alpha, Beta, Gamma, Delta and Omicron Variants.

22.  How does the Alpha variant of SARS-CoV-2 differ from the original strain?

The Alpha variant of SARS-CoV-2, also known as B.1.1.7, has a mutation in the spike protein that allows it to bind to the ACE2 receptor more efficiently and increase its transmissibility.

23.  How does the Beta variant of SARS-CoV-2 differ from the original strain?

The Beta variant of SARS-CoV-2, also known as B.1.351, has several mutations in the spike protein that can affect the virus’ ability to bind to the ACE2 receptor, as well as its ability to evade the immune system.

24.  How does the Gamma variant of SARS-CoV-2 differ from the original strain?

The Gamma variant of SARS-CoV-2, also known as P.1, has several mutations in the spike protein and other genetic regions that can affect the virus’ transmissibility and virulence, as well as its ability to evade the immune system.

25.  How does the Delta variant of SARS-CoV-2 differ from the original strain?

The Delta variant of SARS-CoV-2, also known as B.1.617.2, has several mutations in the spike protein and other genetic regions that can affect the virus’ transmissibility and virulence, as well as its ability to evade the immune system.

26.  How does the Omicron variant of SARS-CoV-2 differ from the original strain?

The Omicron variant of SARS-CoV-2 is a new strain that was identified in South Africa, Brazil and other countries. The variant has multiple mutations that include those in the spike protein which is the major target for the virus to enter human cells. The Omicron variant carries a set of mutations named E484K and K417N, that can affect the virus’ ability to bind to the ACE2 receptor, as well as its ability to evade the immune system. Additionally, the Omicron variant carries a mutation in the N gene, which may change the behavior of the virus in the host’s body, making it more virulent. It spread to more than 55 countries by end of 2022.

27.  How do SARS-CoV-2 variants affect the vaccine efficacy?

SARS-CoV-2 variants can affect the vaccine efficacy by altering the spike protein, which is the target of many Covid-19 vaccines. This can reduce the ability of the vaccine to protect against the variant.

28.  What is the public health response to the emergence of SARS-CoV-2 variants?

The public health response to the emergence of SARS-CoV-2 variants includes monitoring their spread, increasing testing and contact tracing, and updating vaccine strategies to account for the new variants.

29.  How does SARS-CoV-2 infect human cells?

SARS-CoV-2 enters human cells by binding to the ACE2 receptor on the surface of the cell, and then using its spike protein to fuse with the cell membrane.

30.  What are the main organs affected by Covid-19?

The main organs affected by Covid-19 are the lungs, with the potential for severe respiratory failure and multiorgan failure.

31.  How does SARS-CoV-2 cause lung damage?

SARS-CoV-2 infects the lung epithelial cells and triggers a severe inflammatory response, leading to lung damage, as well as blood clotting and clotting disorders that can also cause damage to other organs.

32.  How does Covid-19 affect the immune system?

Covid-19 can cause a cytokine storm, a hyperactive immune response characterized by the overproduction of inflammatory molecules called cytokines, leading to damage to multiple organs.

33.  How does Covid-19 affect the cardiovascular system?

Covid-19 can cause blood clots to form in the small blood vessels of the heart, brain, and other organs, leading to heart attacks, strokes, and other cardiovascular complications.

34.  How does Covid-19 affect the nervous system?

Covid-19 can cause neurological complications such as encephalopathy, headaches, and loss of taste and smell.

35.  How does Covid-19 affect the kidneys?

Covid-19 can cause kidney injury, which can lead to acute kidney injury and chronic kidney disease.

36.  How does Covid-19 affect the liver?

Covid-19 can cause liver injury, leading to inflammation and dysfunction of the liver.

37.  How does Covid-19 affect the gut?

Covid-19 can cause gut damage, leading to diarrhea and abdominal pain.

38.  How does Covid-19 affect other organs?

Covid-19 can affect other organs such as the skin, leading to rashes and other skin reactions, as well as the pancreas, leading to inflammation and dysfunction of the pancreas.

39.  How do Covid-19 vaccines work?

Covid-19 vaccines work by introducing a small piece of the virus, such as a spike protein, into the body. This prompts the immune system to produce antibodies and T-cells that can recognize and neutralize the virus if the person is exposed to it in the future.

40.  What types of Covid-19 vaccines are available?

There are several types of Covid-19 vaccines available, including mRNA vaccines (Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna), vector vaccines (AstraZeneca and Johnson & Johnson), and inactivated virus vaccines (Sinovac and Bharat Biotech).

41.  How effective are Covid-19 vaccines?

The effectiveness of Covid-19 vaccines varies depending on the type of vaccine, the study population, and the population where the vaccine is used. Generally, the mRNA vaccines are highly effective, with clinical trials showing an efficacy of around 95%. Other vaccines have also shown high efficacy, but the effectiveness is generally lower.

42.  How many doses of Covid-19 vaccine are needed?

Most Covid-19 vaccines require two doses. The Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna vaccines require two doses given 3-4 weeks apart. The AstraZeneca and Johnson & Johnson vaccines require one dose, but some countries are also giving a second dose for extra protection.

43.  Who is eligible for the Covid-19 vaccine?

Eligibility for the Covid-19 vaccine varies depending on the country and the phase of vaccine roll-out. Generally, priority is given to high-risk individuals such as health care workers, older adults, and those with underlying health conditions.

44.  Are there any side effects of the Covid-19 vaccine?

The most common side effects of Covid-19 vaccines are mild and short-lived, such as pain and swelling at the injection site, headache, fever, muscle pain, and fatigue. Serious side effects are rare.

45.  How long does immunity last after the Covid-19 vaccine?

The duration of immunity after the Covid-19 vaccine is not yet fully understood, but studies suggest that immunity lasts for several months at least. Booster doses may be necessary to maintain long-term immunity.

46.  Can the Covid-19 vaccine prevent infection?

The Covid-19 vaccine can prevent severe illness, hospitalization, and death from Covid-19, but it may not prevent infection entirely. Some people may still become infected with the virus after being vaccinated, but their symptoms are usually milder.

47.  Can the Covid-19 vaccine cause long-term side effects?

There is no evidence to suggest that the Covid-19 vaccine causes long-term side effects. The vaccines have been studied extensively in clinical trials and have been shown to be safe.

48.  How can I get the Covid-19 vaccine?

Availability of the Covid-19 vaccine varies depending on the country, but typically, people can check with their local health department or hospitals for information on vaccine availability and registration. It’s also important to be informed about the vaccine roll-out plans in your country.

49.  How Sars-COV-2 is different from MERS Virus?

• Origin: Covid-19 is believed to have originated from bats and then jumped to humans, while MERS is believed to have originated from camels and then jumped to humans.
• Transmission: Covid-19 is primarily transmitted through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes, and it can also be transmitted by touching a surface or object contaminated with the virus and then touching one’s face. MERS is primarily transmitted through close contact with an infected person, such as through respiratory droplets or contact with bodily fluids.
• Symptoms: The symptoms of Covid-19 and MERS are similar and include fever, cough, and shortness of breath. However, MERS can also cause diarrhea and kidney failure, while Covid-19 can cause loss of taste or smell, body aches, and other symptoms.
• Severity: Covid-19 is generally considered to be more severe than MERS, with higher rates of hospitalization and death. However, the severity of the disease can vary depending on the individual’s age, underlying health conditions, and other factors.
• Vaccines: Covid-19 vaccines have been developed and authorized for emergency use, while there is no vaccine yet for MERS.
• Spread: Covid-19 has spread globally and became a pandemic, while MERS has not spread as widely and is considered a regional outbreak.

50.  Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations

Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI) is a global organization that aims to accelerate the development, production, and distribution of vaccines for outbreaks of emerging infectious diseases. CEPI was founded in 2017 in response to the Ebola outbreak in West Africa and is a partnership between governments, global health organizations, industry, academia, civil society, and philanthropy. The organization’s goal is to be better prepared for future epidemics by investing in research and development of vaccines and creating a global vaccine production and distribution system. CEPI also works to ensure that vaccines are affordable and accessible to those who need them, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.

51.  How Chunyun migration is linked to Covid-19?

The Chunyun migration refers to the large-scale movement of people in China that occurs during the Chinese New Year, also known as the Spring Festival. This migration is the largest annual human migration in the world and is characterized by hundreds of millions of people traveling home to celebrate the holiday with their families. This movement of people has been linked to the spread of Covid-19 as it may have helped the virus to quickly spread from person to person. The virus is thought to have emerged from Wuhan, China in December 2019, around the time of the Chunyun migration. As people traveled home to celebrate the Chinese New Year, they may have unknowingly spread the virus to other parts of China and beyond.

52.  What is Public Health Emergency of International Concern?

A Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) is a formal designation given by the World Health Organization (WHO) to a situation that constitutes a public health risk to other countries through the international spread of disease. The WHO’s International Health Regulations (IHR) define a PHEIC as “an extraordinary event” that is “likely to constitute a public health risk to other countries through the international spread of disease” and “to potentially require a coordinated international response.”

The declaration of a PHEIC is made by the WHO Director-General and is based on recommendations from the Emergency Committee on the outbreak. This designation is used to alert other countries of the outbreak and to coordinate an international response. The WHO Director-General can also recommend temporary recommendations to reduce the risk of international spread of disease.

Examples of past PHEICs include the 2009 H1N1 influenza pandemic, the 2014 Ebola outbreak in West Africa, and the current COVID-19 pandemic. The WHO’s goal in declaring a PHEIC is to ensure that countries are aware of the outbreak and to coordinate an international response to control the spread of the disease and mitigate its impact.

53.  What is Arogya Setu?

Government of India has launched the Aarogya Setu mobile application to help people assess their risk of coronavirus infection. The app is built in a public-private partnership mode and is available on both the Google Play Store and the Apple Store. The app uses Bluetooth technology and Artificial Intelligence to assess a person’s risk of infection based on their interactions with other people. The app works by detecting other devices with the same app installed nearby and uses this information to determine the risk of infection.

54.  Which was the first nation in the world to approve coronavirus?

The United Kingdom has become the first nation in the world to approve coronavirus vaccine made by Pfizer – BioNTech.

55.  In which country, world’s first baby with antibodies against the novel coronavirus was born?

World’s first baby with antibodies against the novel coronavirus is born in the USA. The mother was vaccinated against COVID-19 during 36th week of her pregnancy which resulted in development of antibodies in both mother and the baby.

56.  Which country developed world’s first animal vaccine against Novel Coronavirus?

The world’s first animal vaccine against the novel coronavirus has been registered in Russia. It has been as ‘Carnivac-Cov’. As per the country’s agriculture safety watchdog Rosselkhoznadzor, the immunity lasts for six months after the vaccination. The use of this vaccine is expected to prevent the development of virus mutations.

57.  What is Florona?

Unlike Alpha, Beta, Delta, Omicron and others, florona is not a mutant variant of coronavirus. It is a case of double respiratory infection caused by COVID-19 and influenza pathogens. When the viruses of these two infections are present at the same time in the body, the condition is referred to as florona. The first case was detected in Israel.

58.  What is Twindemic?

Twindemic is a term used during the COVID-19 pandemic, referring to the possibility of a severe flu season happening alongside an increase in cases of COVID-19 during the fall and winter of 2020 and 2021. A consequence of a twindemic may be a mixture of two different infections in the same person at the same time.

59.  What is Delmicron?

‘Delmicron’ is not a new variant or mutation. It is a combination of the protein spikes of both Delta and Omicron.

60.  What is GISAID Initiative?

Global Initiative on Sharing All Influenza Data (GISAID) is an international, not-for-profit public-private partnership initiated in 2008, in response to the H1N1 influenza pandemic. GISAID aims to facilitate the sharing of genetic data of influenza viruses, including the SARS-CoV-2 virus that causes COVID-19, among scientists and public health officials worldwide. The initiative is focused on the collection, analysis, and dissemination of data on influenza viruses, including those that cause pandemics.

61. What are other RNA Viruses like Coronavirus?

The Ebola Virus is responsible for causing ebola hemorrhagic fever. It is an RNA virus. It was responsible for causing a number of epidemics in Africa such as in 2014 in West Africa. Influenza viruses are a group of RNA viruses that cause influenza in birds and mammals. They have been behind a number of pandemics like the 1918 Spanish Flu.