This guide provides an introduction to the evolution and spread of the novel coronavirus that has so drastically changed our lives over the past few weeks. It was initially prepared for a 4th year class in evolutionary biology I teach at the University of Ottawa, Canada. I hope it helps. Our lives have changed dramatically in the past week or so. Chances are good that they won't ever be quite the same again. It helps - for me at least - to know a little bit about what we are up against and the rationale behind why we are being asked to change how we interact with each other so drastically. I hope what I've included in here helps.

It can also help to see things from a different angle. Check out this collection of work, called 'Life in the time of contagion', from Italian artist Luca Leonelli.