However, there is still a significant amount of information that remains unknown. As the new coronavirus continues to rapidly spread across the globe, researchers, doctors, policymakers, and economists are still grappling with several crucial questions. One key question is the level of contagiousness of the virus. The World Health Organization (WHO) states that the virus is spread from person to person through small droplets from the nose or mouth, typically through coughing or sneezing. Additionally, the virus can linger on surfaces for several days, meaning individuals can also become infected by touching contaminated surfaces and then touching their own nose, mouth, or eyes. Although there is some indication that the virus can be transmitted through contact with virus particles in the feces of an infected person, this remains unconfirmed. How many individuals are affected and how many are asymptomatic? Over 550,000 cases have been reported globally, with over 127,000 recoveries and more than 24,000 deaths. Some experts suggest that up to 80% of those infected may have mild or no symptoms, potentially leading to millions of undiagnosed cases. However, further research and testing are needed to determine a more precise figure. Are young people at lower risk of death from the virus? While younger individuals are less susceptible, they can still contract COVID-19 and require hospitalization. The extent of their safety is still unknown. The World Health Organization reports that older individuals with pre-existing conditions such as COPD, asthma, high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart disease are more likely to develop severe illness. A US health official mentioned that the mortality rate for males is double that of females in all age groups. Health experts advise that those with underlying conditions and weakened immune systems are at higher risk. Furthermore, the possibility of reinfection is being considered. This question is crucial, and the answer is still unknown. Some recovered patients have experienced potential "reinfection," although many scientists believe these cases are more likely to be relapses. Even if a patient feels better and tests negative for the virus in their nose and throat, the virus may still be present elsewhere in their body. Fully recovered patients have antibodies in their blood that are expected to provide protection from a new infection, but the duration of this protection is uncertain. Some viruses may cause antibodies to diminish more quickly. Even if antibodies remain present, SARS-CoV-2 could mutate slightly over time, similar to flu viruses, making the antibodies no longer effective. Various academic labs and medical companies are working on creating blood tests to determine if individuals have been exposed to the virus and if they have developed immunity. Serological testing will also provide a more comprehensive understanding of the pandemic. The question remains: when will treatments or a vaccine be available? Currently, there are no vaccines or antiviral medications specifically designed for the new coronavirus. Treatment primarily involves managing symptoms, such as providing breathing assistance. Companies globally are working to develop vaccines, with some already conducting early safety testing on humans. However, experts caution that it may take a year or longer to fully develop and test a vaccine. Another issue arises: viruses have the ability to undergo rapid mutations. A few researchers have noted slight alterations in the virus since it first appeared in Wuhan, China in December. However, recent research indicates that the virus remains relatively stable, indicating that vaccines should still be effective once they are developed. There was some hope among experts that the virus would spread at a slower rate in warmer climates during the summer months. The European Centre for Disease Control announced on Wednesday that the spread of the virus is unlikely to decrease. The World Health Organization has also stated that the virus can be transmitted in various climates, including hot and humid ones. The duration of the pandemic remains uncertain and will be influenced by factors such as continued isolation, avoidance of group gatherings, and the availability of effective drugs or a vaccine. President Donald Trump expressed his desire to "reopen" the U.S. economy by Easter Sunday on April 12, but his decision has been met with criticism due to concerns that rushing the process could result in more deaths. Life in Hubei province, the epicenter of China's coronavirus outbreak, has gradually returned to normal after two months of lockdown. The question remains whether this return to normalcy will trigger another outbreak. It is uncertain whether the severity of illness from the virus is influenced by the amount of exposure to it. Viruses infect cells in the body, using them to reproduce and increase in number. The initial amount of virus particles entering the body does not significantly impact the eventual virus levels. However, frequent exposure does increase the likelihood of the virus entering the body. The International Monetary Fund predicts that the pandemic will lead to a global recession in 2020, potentially more severe than the 2008 financial crisis. The extent and duration of the recession, as well as the nature of the recovery, are uncertain and subject to debate. Economists believe that the outcome of the current situation will depend largely on the duration of the lockdowns and the extent of government support provided to individuals, businesses, and markets. The emergency spending in trillions of dollars and central bank measures are aimed at ensuring the functioning of financial markets, which are crucial for the real economy. Government actions, such as the $2 trillion US stimulus package, are expected to boost the economy by providing cash to individuals and funding to small businesses and companies. However, it is uncertain whether these measures will be sufficient as they still need to be implemented effectively. Some investors and bank strategists are considering if now is a good time to invest in the world's stock markets, which have dropped around 25% since February. Hedge fund manager Bill Ackman recently expressed optimism about stocks and credit, stating he is investing in companies at discounted prices that can weather the current crisis. However, due to the numerous uncertainties, many analysts and investors are hesitant to predict when the market will hit its lowest point.