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The epidemics is thought to have begun in Guangdong province of southern China, spreading elsewhere in China and through Hong Kong to Vietnam, Singapore, Thailand, Taiwan, Canada, the United States and Europe. It may be caused by a previously unknown type of corona virus, one of many viruses that cause the common cold. • As of yesterday, the number of known victims totaled 1,550 in 13 countries, and 54 have died. In the United States, there have been 62 reported cases in 22 states. There is no known treatment. Antibiotics do not help, but the antiviral drug ribavirin may benefit some patients. Between 80 percent and 90 percent of victims recover on their own. About 4 percent die. • Symptoms are a lot like those of the flu -- a very high fever, 104 degrees Fahrenheit or higher, and usually shortness of breath and a dry cough.
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