Rare Human Coronavirus HKU1 Detected in Kolkata: What You Need to Know
A 45-year-old woman in South Kolkata is being treated for the rare HKU1 coronavirus. Doctors say her condition is stable. Though less known than SARS, MERS, or COVID-19, understanding its spread, risks, and precautions is crucial.
While HKU1 is not as widely known as SARS, MERS, or COVID-19, it is important to understand how it spreads, who is at risk, and what precautions can be taken.
What is Rare Human Coronavirus HKU1?
First identified in 2005, human coronavirus HKU1 is a member of the coronavirus family that primarily affects the respiratory system. Unlike the novel coronavirus that caused the COVID-19 pandemic, HKU1 has been circulating in human populations for years and evolves steadily. Though rare, it has been found in cases of respiratory infections worldwide.
Dr. Suranjit Chatterjee, Senior Consultant of Internal Medicine at Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, New Delhi, explains: “There are many kinds of coronaviruses. But unlike COVID-19, HKU1 is not novel. Most people get infected with these viruses at some point in their lives, and the infections usually last for a limited duration. There is no need to panic,” he said while speaking to The Indian Express.
Symptoms of HKU1 Infection
Most people experience mild to moderate symptoms similar to the flu or common cold, including:
- Persistent cough
- Runny nose or nasal congestion
- Sore throat
- Fatigue and malaise
- Low-grade fever
- Headaches
- Blocked sinuses
In severe cases, particularly in high-risk individuals, HKU1 can lead to complications like pneumonia or bronchitis.
How Does HKU1 Spread?
Similar to other respiratory viruses, HKU1 spreads through:
- Airborne transmission: Inhalation of virus-laden droplets from an infected person’s cough or sneeze.
- Surface contamination: Touching contaminated objects like doorknobs, phones, or tables and then touching the nose, mouth, or eyes.
- Close contact: Prolonged exposure to an infected individual increases the risk of transmission.
Who is at Risk?
While most healthy individuals recover quickly from HKU1 infections, certain groups are more vulnerable to severe complications:
- Elderly individuals
- Infants and young children
- Pregnant women
- People with weakened immune systems
- Individuals with chronic conditions such as asthma, diabetes, or heart disease
Precautionary Measures
As of now, no vaccine or specific treatment exists for HKU1. However, you can reduce the risk of infection by following these preventive measures:
- Frequent handwashing: Wash hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
- Wearing masks: Use masks in crowded places to minimize exposure.
- Maintaining hygiene: Disinfect frequently touched surfaces like mobile phones, door handles, and tabletops.
- Avoiding close contact: Limit exposure to individuals showing flu-like symptoms.
- Boosting immunity: Eat a nutritious diet, stay hydrated, and ensure adequate sleep to strengthen your immune system.
Final Thoughts
While Rare Human Coronavirus HKU1 is not a new or highly dangerous virus, awareness and precaution are key to preventing its spread. By adopting basic hygiene measures and staying informed, we can protect ourselves and those at higher risk. Health experts emphasize that vigilance, rather than panic, is the best approach to managing infections like HKU1.
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