Coronaviruses: a paradigm of new emerging zoonotic diseases

Cristiano Salata1, Arianna Calistri1, Cristina Parolin1

  • 1Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, Via Gabelli 63, 35121, Padova, Italy.

Pathogens and Disease
|February 18, 2020
PubMed

Insights

A novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) emerged in Wuhan, China, causing a rapid global outbreak. Molecular analysis indicates a bat origin, underscoring the zoonotic threat of coronaviruses.

Area of Science:

  • Virology
  • Epidemiology
  • Zoonotic Diseases

Background:

  • A novel coronavirus, identified as 2019-nCoV, emerged in Wuhan, China.
  • The outbreak rapidly escalated, with over 31,000 confirmed cases and 638 deaths within one month.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To report the emergence and initial spread of a novel human coronavirus.
  • To investigate the potential origin and zoonotic capacity of 2019-nCoV.

Main Methods:

  • Epidemiological surveillance of reported cases.
  • Molecular analysis to determine viral origins.

Main Results:

  • The virus spread rapidly internationally from Wuhan.
  • Initial molecular data suggested a bat origin with potential intermediate hosts.

Conclusions:

  • The emergence of 2019-nCoV highlights the significant zoonotic potential of coronaviruses.
  • Rapid global spread necessitates urgent public health interventions and further research.

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