Severe acute respiratory syndrome–related coronavirus

Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome-related Coronavirus (SARS-CoV) is a species of coronavirus that infects humans, bats, and palm civets. The viruses are enveloped and have a positive-sense single-stranded RNA genome. The genome size of coronaviruses ranges from approximately 27 to 34 kilobases, extraordinarily large for an RNA virus.

Overview

SARS-CoV is one of several viruses identified by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a likely cause of a future epidemic in a new plan developed after the Ebola outbreak in West Africa. It is listed as a Category 2 pathogen by the Advisory Committee on Dangerous Pathogens and the Health and Safety Executive.

History

The SARS-CoV was first identified in Guangdong, China in November 2002. Over 8000 people were infected, and at least 774 died. A small number of cases were identified in 2004, but there have been no outbreaks since.

Transmission

SARS-CoV is transmitted from person to person. The virus is typically spread through the air by coughing or sneezing, by touching an object or surface with the virus on it, then touching your mouth, nose, or eyes before washing your hands, and occasionally by fecal contamination.

Symptoms

The symptoms of SARS-CoV infection include fever, chills, and body aches which usually progress to pneumonia. No individual symptom or cluster of symptoms has proved to be specific for a diagnosis of SARS-CoV infection.

Prevention and Treatment

There is no vaccine for SARS to date. Isolation and quarantine remain the most effective means to prevent the spread of SARS-CoV. Other preventative measures include hand washing, avoiding close contact with those who are sick, and wearing a surgical mask.

See Also

• Coronavirus
• SARS-CoV-2
• Middle East respiratory syndrome-related coronavirus

References

Severe acute respiratory syndrome–related coronavirus Resources
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