Wuhan Virus
Mains-GS2-Social Justice
1. Chinese scientists have confirmed that the mysterious coronavirus had killed at least six individuals.
2. Coronavirus is a type of virus named after its spiky, solar corona-like appearance under an electron microscope.
3. There is a possibility of a public health crisis in the peak travel season as the virus is transmitted through human-to-human interaction.
About the virus
1. The first cases emerged in Wuhan and have remained the epicentre of the outbreak.
2. The virus has also been reported from South Korea, Hongkong, and nearby regions.
3. The virus is known also as ‘2019-nCoV’ is a new strain of coronavirus that has not previously been identified in humans.
4. Animals are likely regarded as a primary source.
Novel CoV
1. Coronaviruses are a large group of viruses that are common among animals.
2. They are zoonotic in nature in rare cases. It means they can be transmitted from animals to humans.
3. A novel coronavirus (CoV) is a new strain of coronavirus that has not been previously identified in humans.
4. Common signs include respiratory symptoms, fever, cough, shortness of breath, and breathing difficulties.
5. In more severe cases, the infection can cause pneumonia, severe acute respiratory syndrome, kidney failure, and even death.
6. While there is no specific treatment for disease caused by a novel coronavirus many of the symptoms can be treated.
7. Examples of CoV
a) Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) virus- It was first reported in the Middle East region in 2012.
b) Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS)- It was first identified in the Guangdong province in southern China.
Remedies
1. To prevent the spread of all respiratory infections, covering mouths and noses when coughing or sneezing and to frequently hand wash is recommended.
2. Direct contact with farm or wild animals is to be avoided.
3. Similar outbreaks in the past, like the SARS, emerged from markets where people were in contact with live animals.
Source- Indian Express and WHO
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