A 45-year-old woman in West Bengal’s Kolkata has been diagnosed with human coronavirus HKU1. Reportedly, the woman was suffering from a persistent fever, cough, and cold for the past 15 days.

According to an Indian Express report, the woman is currently receiving treatment at a private hospital in South Kolkata and she is stable now. While this virus is not as well-known as COVID-19, it can still cause respiratory infections.

What is Human Coronavirus HKU1?

Betacoronavirus hongkonense, commonly known as human coronavirus HKU1 (HCoV-HKU1), is a species of coronavirus that affects humans and animals. Human coronaviruses (HCoVs) are are enveloped RNA viruses and they belong to the Coronaviridae family.

Till now, seven types of HCoV have been discovered in humans: HCoV-229E, HCoV-OC43, HCoV-NL63, HCoV-HKU1, SARS-CoV, MERS-CoV and SARS-CoV-2. HCoV-HKU1, also known as human coronavirus HKU1, was first identified in Hong Kong in 2005. Studies suggest infection by HCoV-HKU1 occurs worldwide and causes syndromes such as the common cold, bronchitis, and pneumonia.

How Human Coronavirus HKU1 is different from COVID-19?

Human Coronavirus HKU1 causes upper respiratory diseases with symptoms similar to the common cold. However, it can also lead to more severe conditions such as pneumonia and bronchiolitis. It is less severe than the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which causes Covid-19.

What are the symptoms of Human Coronavirus HKU1?

Most cases of HCoV-HKU1 resemble regular flu-like illnesses and include:

• Persistent cough
• Runny nose or nasal congestion
• Sore throat
• Fever
• Sneezing
• Fatigue
• Headache

In severe cases, the infection can lead to shortness of breath, pneumonia, or bronchitis. Doctors maintain that while mild cases resolve on their own, senior citizens, young children, and those with weakened immune systems may experience more severe complications.

How does Human Coronavirus HKU1 spreads?

Human Coronavirus HKU1 can spread like any other virus that causes respiratory illnesses like:

• Direct contact with infected respiratory droplets (e.g., coughing or sneezing)
• Touching contaminated surfaces and then touching the face, mouth, or nose
• Close contact with an infected person

How can you protect yourself?

You can protect yourself from the infection by following the basic hygiene and preventive measures can help reduce the risk of infection:

• Wash hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
• Wear a mask in crowded or high-risk areas
• Avoid close contact with people showing symptoms of respiratory infections
• Sanitize frequently touched surfaces like doorknobs, mobile phones, and countertops
• Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing to prevent droplet spread
• Boost immunity by eating a balanced diet, staying hydrated, and getting enough rest.