[Asia Economy Reporter Jeong Hyunjin] The viral pneumonia of unknown cause that broke out in Wuhan, Hubei Province, central China, has been identified as a novel coronavirus, China Central Television (CCTV) reported on the 9th.
CCTV stated that this virus is different from previously discovered coronaviruses and others, and further scientific research is needed. According to the report, experts conducted whole genome sequencing, nucleic acid testing, and virus isolation to find the cause of the disease. Fifteen patients tested positive for the novel coronavirus.
Authorities had previously excluded SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome), MERS (Middle East Respiratory Syndrome), and avian influenza as causes of this pneumonia and have been conducting additional investigations to identify the cause. The World Health Organization (WHO) announced the day before that the new virus is likely the cause of this pneumonia outbreak.
Coronaviruses are pathogens that cause respiratory and intestinal diseases. Besides humans, mammals such as cattle, cats, dogs, camels, bats, rats, hedgehogs, and various species of birds can be infected. So far, six types of coronaviruses have been identified; some cause mild symptoms like the common cold, while others, such as SARS and MERS viruses, can cause severe respiratory diseases.
Meanwhile, according to the Wuhan Municipal Health Commission, eight of the patients have fully recovered and were discharged yesterday. The commission had announced on the 5th that there were 59 patients with pneumonia of unknown cause, seven of whom were in serious condition. The cluster outbreak of pneumonia of unknown cause in Wuhan raised concerns about the recurrence of SARS in mainland China and Hong Kong.
© The Asia Business Daily(www.asiae.co.kr). All rights reserved.
