Coronaviruses comprise a large family of viruses infecting a broad range of vertebras, from a mammalian to avian species.
The viruses were initially named based on the disease syndrome they were isolated from and subsequently shown to cause following experimental inoculation. The word ‘coronavirus’ derives from the crown-like appearance of this type of virus in images generated by electron microscopes.
Coronaviruses are currently placed in the family Coronaviridae and together with the family Arteriviridae, comprise a new order: Nidovirales.
Coronaviruses are enveloped, positive-stranded RNA viruses that can infect a variety of vertebrates and are mainly associated with respiratory and enteric disease.
Coronaviruses are associated mainly with respiratory, enteric, hepatic and central nervous system disease
In humans, coronaviruses infections manifest usually as mild respiratory tract disease and only occasionally more severe symptoms, particularly on elderly or immune compromised individuals, are observed.
One type coronavirus is Middle East Respiratory Syndrome. It is a viral respiratory illness and it was first reported in Saudi Arabia in June 2012.
The virus which caused Middle East Respiratory Syndrome is caused by a beta coronaviruses. Most people who suffer from the MERS-CoV (Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus) infection will develop severe acute respiratory illnesses, the symptoms of which include fever, coughing and shortness of breath.
MERS-CoV is closely related to SARS coronavirus, which was originated In China. It claimed 800 lives worldwide from 2002 to 2003.
Coronavirus
