Know about NeoCov and MERS-CoV
With the onset of Covid-19 pandemic, humankind has witnessed the evolution of a number of covid variants. The deadly virus has caused widespread fatalities and infection. While the first wave was dominated by the Alpha variant, Beta, Kappa, Delta strain have followed suit. The world population is now dealing with the Omicron variant. With time the corona virus has proved to be increasing its transmissibility and hence infecting larger number of people than the initial days. However, thanks to the rapid vaccination of the majority of the population, the fatality rate has shown a sharp decline.
According to recent developments, Chinese researchers have now issued warnings about a new strain of covid virus, NeoCov, that is currently being found in South Africa among wild animals. Though the matter requires further study, the following information has been released about it.
What is NeoCov?
According to WHO, NeoCov stands for Neoromicia, which is a species of bat that have been infected with the virus. Unlike other covid variants, NeoCov bears a close resemblance with MERS-CoV. Found in bats in other wild animals, MERS-CoV is zoonotic virus, that is it can be transmitted from animals to humans. This fact provokes a possibility that NeoCov can exhibit such characteristics.
However, according to WHO, “Whether the virus detected in the study will pose a risk for humans will require further study,” — as told to a Russian news agency.
What is MERS-CoV?
MERS is a respiratory disease caused by the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome coronavirus or MERS-CoV, that was first identified in Saudi Arabia in 2012. The spectrum of clinical symptoms ranges from being asymptomatic (no symptoms) to severe pneumonia (though not always present), including fever, cough and shortness of breath. Gastrointestinal problems, like diarrhea have also been reported. The virus seems to cause more complexities in older people and people with comorbidity like cancer, diabetes and chronic lung disease.
Transmission is both non-human to human and human to human. Camels and bats are the major source of this virus. Once transmitted to humans the virus might increase its transmissibility, in case of close contact with an affected person. Transmission have also seemed to surge in places where prevention practices are inadequate.
Why is it alarming?
According to scientists in Wuhan, NeoCov carries combination of MERS-CoV fatality rate & SARS-CoV transmission rate. Though a mutation is required for the virus to infiltrate human body, few researchers are raising an alarm against the lethality of the virus. It is believed to be fatal to 1 out of 3 people, though transmission from animals to humans haven’t been confirmed yet. However, it might be a matter of concern, if humans are affected. Antibodies against SARS-CoV and MERS-CoV would be less effective in this new variant, thus leaving a requirement of further research on medical grounds.
What are the symptoms?
Symptoms also take after with that of MERS-CoV. Fever, cough, congestion and breathing difficulties are the main effects. Pneumonia and Older people and people with comorbidity run a higher risk of infection.
What are the precautions required?
Though no cases have been detected in India yet, it is never late to undertake the necessary precautions. It is mandatory to remain masked outdoors, and isolate oneself with the detection of any of the symptoms. People should follow proper hygiene and maintain sanitation as directed by WHO or other medical boards. It is always safe to maintain social distancing, avoid mass gatherings and follow all medical guidelines issued by experts.
