(Image source from: Canva.com)
A woman aged 49 from Kolkata, West Bengal has been diagnosed with the human coronavirus HKU1. The hospital reports that she was admitted after suffering from a persistent fever lasting 15 days. She has not traveled in the past month. The patient, who resides in Garia, South Kolkata, is currently under medical care, and her health is stable. Dr. Arindam Biswas, the physician at RN Tagore Hospital, stated, "The patient was initially found to have secondary pneumonia. She has had a high fever for the last 15 days. There is no history of travel associated with her. This case is not related to SARS-CoV-2; rather, it is another variant of coronavirus known as HKU-1. We have provided her with a high dosage of antibiotics, and she is showing signs of recovery. She is anticipated to be discharged on Tuesday." Experts noted that this virus has been recognized for around 20 years and is less likely to lead to widespread outbreaks.
The Betacoronavirus hongkonense, popularly referred to as human coronavirus HKU1 (HCoV-HKU1), is a viral infection that falls within the coronavirus family affecting humans and animals. Unlike the SARS-CoV-2 virus responsible for Covid-19, HKU1 is not new. This RNA virus was identified at Hong Kong University in 2004. Dr. Rajeev Jayadevan, Chairman of the Scientific Committee at IMA Cochin, informed IANS, "HKU1 is among several viruses causing the common cold within the coronavirus group. It differs from Covid-19 and is not a recent emergence." Research indicates that by the age of 3-4 years, most children have experienced at least one HKU1 infection. "Children are commonly exposed to these viruses as they grow up, but the immunity they develop does not last long, making recurrent infections common," Dr. Jayadevan remarked.
A study published in the Indian Journal of Medical Microbiology in 2021 by Sir Ganga Ram Hospital found that HKU1, along with NL63, OC43, and 229E, accounted for 4.3% of infections in a sample of 250 children. While it typically causes mild cold-like symptoms, it can lead to more serious issues such as pneumonia and respiratory difficulties in some cases. Dr. Monica Mahajan, Director of Internal Medicine at Max Healthcare, noted, "The initial case detected in Hong Kong involved pneumonia and acute respiratory distress syndrome following a trip to China. However, there is no cause for alarm. HCoV-HKU1 tends to result in milder infections compared to the SARS and MERS viruses. Most individuals will exhibit flu-like symptoms, including a runny nose, sore throat, body aches, headaches, and fever. Infants, toddlers, and the elderly are particularly susceptible to complications. Those with weakened immune systems, such as diabetics, cancer patients, and individuals with respiratory conditions, face a higher risk of severe illness. The virus spreads through respiratory droplets released when an infected person coughs or sneezes," Dr. Mahajan explained.
At present, there is no vaccine available for HKU1. It is recommended to practice proper coughing and sneezing etiquette, steer clear of individuals exhibiting flu-like symptoms, and maintain a nutritious diet. "Once the new supply of influenza vaccines for 2025-26 becomes available, make sure to get vaccinated," Dr. Mahajan suggested. According to the expert, there is little point in testing for HKU1 since it is treated symptomatically with paracetamol and antihistamines. Staying hydrated and getting adequate rest are crucial. HKU1 primarily transmits through contact and is also spread through the air when in close proximity to someone who is coughing or sneezing.
Dr. Jayadevan pointed out that viruses tend to linger on frequently touched surfaces, so it is beneficial to wash hands with soap and water after returning from public settings. He advised individuals who are particularly at risk to exercise additional caution against respiratory viruses, as these infections can escalate to more severe forms. Currently, there is a notable increase in influenza cases worldwide. Dr. Mahajan explained that this surge is attributable to two factors: "The influenza virus evolves rapidly, and the available vaccines do not offer complete protection. Additionally, the large-scale vaccination efforts for SARS-CoV-2, or Covid-19, have led to a form of 'herd immunity.' As a result, the influenza virus is now the most prevalent virus circulating."
