Experts Confirm HKU1 is Not a Novel Virus, Unlikely to Trigger Widespread Outbreaks
Click to start listening
Synopsis
Health experts assure that HKU1, detected in a Kolkata woman, is not a new virus and has been known for over two decades. Its likelihood of causing widespread infections is minimal, as it generally leads to mild cold symptoms rather than severe illnesses.
Key Takeaways
- HKU1 is not a new coronavirus; it has been identified since 2004.
- It differs significantly from Covid-19.
- Most HKU1 cases are mild, but can be severe in vulnerable individuals.
- Immunity against HKU1 is not long-lasting, leading to frequent reinfections.
- Preventive measures include good hygiene practices.
New Delhi, March 17 (NationPress) Despite the recent report of a woman in Kolkata being diagnosed with Human Coronavirus HKU1, health professionals stated on Monday that this virus has been recognized for over two decades and is unlikely to lead to any widespread outbreaks.
HKU1, named after Hong Kong University where it was first identified in 2004, is also referred to as Betacoronavirus hongkonense. This species of coronavirus affects both humans and animals.
Dr. Rajeev Jayadevan, Chairman of the Scientific Committee at IMA Cochin, informed IANS that HKU1 differs from Covid-19, which is caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus.
“HKU1 is one among several viruses that lead to the common cold, belonging to the coronavirus family. It is distinct from Covid-19 and is not a novel virus,” Jayadevan mentioned.
“Current knowledge indicates that HKU1 is a subtype of coronavirus, and it is less likely to result in widespread infections,” Dr. Harshal R Salve, Additional Professor at the Centre for Community Medicine at AIIMS, New Delhi, told IANS.
What exactly is HKU1, and what symptoms does it manifest?
HKU1 is one of four coronaviruses known to cause the common cold, which include NL63, OC43, and 229E. Conversely, three coronaviruses are associated with severe illnesses: the Covid virus, MERS, and SARS.
Jayadevan pointed out that HKU1 is not generally linked to severe illnesses. Most infections are mild, presenting symptoms like a runny nose, sore throat, cough, and fever. “However, it can lead to severe conditions, such as pneumonia, in vulnerable populations,” he noted.
Global research indicates that by the age of 3-4 years, most children have experienced at least one infection from HKU1.
“Children tend to encounter these viruses during their growth years. Yet, immunity against coronaviruses is typically short-lived, leading to frequent reinfections,” Jayadevan explained.
A study published in the Indian Journal of Medical Microbiology in 2021 by Sir Ganga Ram Hospital revealed that HKU1, along with NL63, OC43, and 229E, accounted for 4.3% of infections in a sample of 250 children.
HKU1 in India
A 45-year-old woman from Garia, Kolkata, was recently diagnosed with HKU1. She had been experiencing fever, cough, and cold symptoms for 15 days; however, her condition remains stable.
As the virus is rarely tested for, it is not accurate to claim it wasn't present in India, Jayadevan stated.
Preventive measures
HKU1 primarily spreads through contact and also via the air when someone nearby coughs or sneezes.
“Viruses tend to linger on frequently touched surfaces, so washing hands thoroughly with soap and water after returning from public spaces is advisable,” the expert emphasized.
He recommended that vulnerable individuals should take extra precautions against respiratory viruses, as these infections can occasionally escalate to severe cases.
Salve further emphasized the importance of maintaining a robust surveillance system as a preparatory measure against such viruses.
