But how does the virus actually attack the body, and why do people react so differently after being infected? Your immune system recognises the virus as a foreign invader and signals to the rest of the body that something is wrong by releasing chemicals called cytokines. These cytokines rally the immune system, but also cause the nasty side effects including the fever and cough. Severe diseaseUnfortunately, around 20% of people will develop more serious side effects, due to their immune system overreacting to the virus. This is due to the immune system spiralling out of control and causing damage throughout the body.

Source: Daily Mirror March 23, 2020 10:33 UTC