Human Coronavirus- HKU1

• 19 Mar 2025

Why in News? 

According to reports a woman in Kolkata is suffering from human coronavirus HKU1, a species of coronavirus. HKU1 typically causes milder respiratory illnesses and does not pose a pandemic threat. 

 Key Points 

• Identification and Evolution: 
  • Coronaviruses exist in multiple types, but HKU1 is not a novel virus like Covid-19. 
  • Scientists first identified HKU1 in 2005 as a rare isolate. 
  • Evidence suggests HKU1 has been evolving steadily in humans, who are likely its only known reservoir. 
• Symptoms and Severity: 
  • HKU1 generally affects the upper respiratory tract, causing symptoms similar to the common cold and flu, including: 
    • Malaise, Persistent cough, Runny nose or nasal congestion, Blocked sinuses, Sore throat, Fatigue, Headaches, Low-grade fever. 
    • In severe cases, the virus may descend to the lungs, leading to pneumonia or bronchitis. 
• Mode of Transmission: 
  • It spreads through common respiratory transmission methods, such as: 
    • Direct contact with an infected person, Respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing. 
    • Touching contaminated surfaces and then touching the face, mouth, or nose 
• Vulnerability:  
  • The disease is self-limiting and resolves on its own. But vulnerable groups like the elderly, children, pregnant women, those with immuno-compromised conditions or with co-morbidities need to be vigilant for severe manifestation of the disease. 
• Treatment:  
  • There is no vaccine or specific treatment for human coronaviruses. Most infected individuals get better on their own.