Amid concerns over a woman in Kolkata testing positive for Human Coronavirus HKU1, health experts have reassured that the virus is not new and is unlikely to cause a widespread outbreak. HKU1 has been known for at least two decades and is categorized among coronaviruses that generally cause mild respiratory infections.
HKU1 was first identified in 2004 by researchers at Hong Kong University, from which it derives its name. Also known as Betacoronavirus hongkonense, it is a species of coronavirus that affects both humans and animals.
Dr. Rajeev Jayadevan, Chairman of the Scientific Committee, IMA Cochin, clarified that HKU1 is different from Covid-19, which is caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus.
“HKU1 is one of several common cold-causing viruses that belong to the coronavirus group. It is not the same as Covid-19 and is not a new virus,” he told IANS.
Dr. Harshal R. Salve, Additional Professor at the Centre for Community Medicine, AIIMS, New Delhi, further explained that HKU1 is a subtype of coronavirus and does not pose a major public health risk.
HKU1 is one of four common cold-causing coronaviruses—along with NL63, OC43, and 229E. In contrast, three coronaviruses are known for causing severe illness: Covid virus, the MERS virus, and the SARS virus.
According to Jayadevan, HKU1 does not typically lead to severe disease. Most cases present mild symptoms such as runny nose, sore throat, cough and fever.
However, in vulnerable individuals, such as those with underlying health conditions, HKU1 can cause pneumonia.
Studies indicate that most children experience at least one infection with HKU1 by the age of 3-4 years.
“Most children get exposed to these viruses while growing up. But immunity against coronaviruses is not long-lasting, which means repeated infections are common,” Jayadevan added.
A 2021 study published in the Indian Journal of Medical Microbiology by Sir Ganga Ram Hospital found that HKU1, along with NL63, OC43, and 229E, accounted for 4.3% of infections among a group of 250 children.
The recent case of HKU1 in India involves a 45-year-old woman from Garia, Kolkata, who has been suffering from fever, cough, and cold for the past 15 days. However, doctors have confirmed that her condition is stable.
Since the virus is “not commonly tested for, it is meaningless to say it wasn’t found in India,” Jayadevan said.
HKU1 spreads mainly by contact, and also through the air by standing close to someone who is coughing or sneezing.
“Viruses tend to stick to commonly touched surfaces, so washing hands with soap and water after returning from public places is a good preventive habit,” Jayadevan advised.
Dr. Salve emphasized the need to maintain a strong surveillance system to monitor and respond to emerging infections.
(Inputs from IANS)
