How does coronavirus hide in the body?

The SARS-CoV-2 virus has a large number of spikes sticking out of its surface which it uses to attach to and enter cells in the human body.

These spikes are coated in sugars, known as glycans, which disguise their viral proteins and help them evade the body's immune system.

'By coating themselves in sugars, viruses are like a wolf in sheep's clothing,' explained Professor Crispin.

The coronavirus has a relatively low level of sugar shielding.

The lower glycan density means there are fewer obstacles for the immune system to neutralise the virus with antibodies.