MERS, SARS and other coronaviruses as causes of pneumonia

MERS, SARS and other coronaviruses as causes of pneumonia

2017 | YUDONG YIN AND RICHARD G. WUNDERINK
This review discusses the epidemiology, pathogenesis, and clinical characteristics of SARS-CoV, MERS-CoV, and other human coronaviruses (HCoVs) in the Asia-Pacific region. Human coronaviruses, once considered harmless, have gained global attention due to the SARS and MERS outbreaks. SARS-CoV and MERS-CoV are beta-coronaviruses that cause severe respiratory infections, while other HCoVs are generally less severe. The origins of these viruses are not fully understood, but bats are believed to be the primary reservoirs for SARS-CoV and MERS-CoV, with intermediate hosts such as palm civets and dromedary camels. Transmission occurs through animal-to-human and human-to-human routes, with human-to-human transmission being more common in healthcare settings. Clinical features of SARS and MERS include fever, cough, and respiratory distress, with MERS being more severe. Laboratory findings show that both viruses can cause acute kidney injury and cardiovascular complications. Radiographic features differ between SARS and MERS, with MERS showing more ground-glass opacities. Diagnosis involves molecular testing, serology, and viral culture. Treatment options are limited, with no specific antiviral therapies available. Research is ongoing to develop effective treatments and vaccines. The review highlights the importance of surveillance and further research to understand the pathogenesis and improve management of HCoV infections.This review discusses the epidemiology, pathogenesis, and clinical characteristics of SARS-CoV, MERS-CoV, and other human coronaviruses (HCoVs) in the Asia-Pacific region. Human coronaviruses, once considered harmless, have gained global attention due to the SARS and MERS outbreaks. SARS-CoV and MERS-CoV are beta-coronaviruses that cause severe respiratory infections, while other HCoVs are generally less severe. The origins of these viruses are not fully understood, but bats are believed to be the primary reservoirs for SARS-CoV and MERS-CoV, with intermediate hosts such as palm civets and dromedary camels. Transmission occurs through animal-to-human and human-to-human routes, with human-to-human transmission being more common in healthcare settings. Clinical features of SARS and MERS include fever, cough, and respiratory distress, with MERS being more severe. Laboratory findings show that both viruses can cause acute kidney injury and cardiovascular complications. Radiographic features differ between SARS and MERS, with MERS showing more ground-glass opacities. Diagnosis involves molecular testing, serology, and viral culture. Treatment options are limited, with no specific antiviral therapies available. Research is ongoing to develop effective treatments and vaccines. The review highlights the importance of surveillance and further research to understand the pathogenesis and improve management of HCoV infections.
Reach us at info@study.space
[slides and audio] MERS%2C SARS and other coronaviruses as causes of pneumonia