SARS-CoV-2 (IMAGE) Howard Hughes Medical Institute Caption Infection with the novel coronavirus (gold spheres) can cause a range of symptoms. Some people with severe cases of COVID-19 have genetic mutations in key immunity genes or antibodies that attack the immune system. Credit NIAID Usage Restrictions Must use credit. License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.