COVID-19 is caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which is a novel coronavirus. This virus is believed to have originated from an animal source, likely a seafood market in Wuhan, China, in late 2019. It is important to note that the virus itself is not a "culprit" in the sense of having intent or responsibility. Viruses are naturally occurring microorganisms that can infect humans and other animals.
The exact origin of SARS-CoV-2 is still a subject of scientific investigation, and several theories have been proposed. It's important to understand that viruses can emerge from various sources, and the focus should be on understanding and managing the spread of the virus, rather than assigning blame.
The pandemic has led to extensive research and collaborative efforts in public health and science to mitigate its impact, find effective treatments, and develop vaccines to protect against COVID-19. It's crucial to follow public health guidelines, practice preventive measures, and support research and healthcare efforts to control the spread of the virus and protect public health.