When it emerged, the virus was known as a “novel”, or “new” strain of the coronavirus family that also brings us the common cold and is named for the spikes sticking out from the virus that, when viewed under a microscope, resemble a crown. Co and Vi come from Corona and Virus. D means disease, and 19 stands for the year the first cases were seen. WHO advisors stressed choosing a name that focuses simply on the type of virus that causes the disease. Guidelines developed in 2015 ensure the name does not refer to a geographical location, an animal, an individual or group of people, while still being pronounceable and related to the disease, to prevent stigmatizing and other denigration of people, places or animals.
