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Published on: November 10, 2023
The widening scope of coronaviruses
1Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Pediatrics, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut 06520, USA. Jeffrey.Kahn@yale.edu
Three new human coronaviruses have emerged, including the one causing severe acquired respiratory syndrome (SARS). These viruses are common causes of respiratory illness, especially in children, highlighting the threat of cross-species transmission.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- The past two years have seen the discovery of three new human coronaviruses.
- These viruses are implicated in a significant portion of respiratory tract diseases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent advances in the understanding of human coronaviruses.
- To highlight the emergence of new coronaviruses and their potential impact on public health.
Main Methods:
- Review of recent scientific literature on human coronaviruses.
- Analysis of epidemiological data and viral identification.
Main Results:
- Severe acquired respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV) emerged in 2002, demonstrating cross-species transmission risks.
- Human coronavirus NL63 (a group I coronavirus) is associated with upper and lower respiratory tract disease, particularly in children.
- Human coronavirus HKU1 (a group II coronavirus) has been identified, with its distribution yet to be fully established.
- NL63 and HKU1 are related to common human coronaviruses 229E and OC43, respectively.
Conclusions:
- The identification of new human coronaviruses marks a significant advancement in respiratory disease research.
- Further research is necessary to fully understand the impact of these emerging pathogens.
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