Deltacoronavirus

Deltacoronavirus is a genus of coronaviruses, which are a group of related viruses that cause diseases in mammals and birds. In humans and birds, they cause respiratory tract infections that can range from mild to lethal. Mild illnesses in humans include some cases of the common cold (which is also caused by other viruses, predominantly rhinoviruses), while more lethal varieties can cause SARS, MERS, and COVID-19. In cows and pigs, they cause diarrhea, while in mice, they cause hepatitis and encephalomyelitis.

Taxonomy

Deltacoronavirus is one of the four genera (Alpha-, Beta-, Gamma-, and Deltacoronavirus) of coronaviruses. The genus Deltacoronavirus is composed of a single species, Coronavirus bulbul. The species has two subspecies: Coronavirus bulbul human and Coronavirus bulbul porcine.

History

Deltacoronaviruses were first discovered in 2012 in pigs in Hong Kong. However, it is believed that they have been present in birds and mammals for a long time. The viruses were found in a variety of bird species, including pigeons, sparrows, and bulbul birds.

Transmission

Deltacoronaviruses are primarily transmitted through direct contact with infected individuals, or through aerosol transmission. They can also be transmitted through the fecal-oral route.

Symptoms and Treatment

In humans, deltacoronaviruses can cause a range of symptoms, from mild cold-like symptoms to severe respiratory illness. In animals, they can cause diarrhea and other gastrointestinal symptoms.

There is currently no specific treatment for infection with deltacoronaviruses. Treatment is supportive and based on the symptoms.

See Also

• Coronavirus
• SARS-CoV-2
• MERS-CoV
• COVID-19 pandemic

Deltacoronavirus Resources
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