Published Mar 19, 2025 | 12:20 PM ⚊ Updated Mar 19, 2025 | 12:20 PM
DNA Virus. (iStock)
Synopsis: A woman in Kolkata was recently diagnosed with an infection caused by the human coronavirus HKU1. Betacoronavirus hongkonense, commonly known as human coronavirus HKU1 (HCoV-HKU1), is a species of coronavirus that infects both humans and animals.
A 45-year-old woman in Kolkata was recently diagnosed with an infection caused by the human coronavirus HKU1 (HCoV-HKU1). This case has drawn attention as it marks a notable occurrence of the virus in India, though HKU1 has been known since its identification in 2005.
The woman, a resident of Garia, Kolkata, has been experiencing persistent symptoms, including fever and cough, for the past 15 days. She is currently stable and receiving treatment at a private hospital in South Kolkata, according to hospital sources.
Betacoronavirus hongkonense, commonly known as human coronavirus HKU1 (HCoV-HKU1), is a species of coronavirus that infects both humans and animals.
HKU1 affects both humans and animals. It typically causes upper respiratory tract infections, with symptoms similar to the common cold, such as cough, fever, and sore throat.
Unlike Covid-19, which is caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, HKU1 generally results in milder symptoms and is not associated with severe illness in most healthy individuals. However, it can lead to more serious conditions like pneumonia in vulnerable populations, including the elderly and individuals with pre-existing health conditions.
“HKU1 is one of four common cold-causing coronaviruses. It is not the same as Covid-19. It was discovered in 2005 at the University of Hong Kong, so it was named HKU1, with ‘HKU’ referring to Hong Kong University. Most children are exposed to common colds caused by coronaviruses rather than the Covid-19 virus, and repeated infections can occur in less than a year,” said Dr Rajeev Jayadevan, Chairman of the Indian Medical Association (IMA) Research Cell in Kerala .
He said that most infections due to this virus present as a typical common cold. However, in frail or vulnerable individuals, it can cause severe infections and may sometimes occur alongside other viral infections. “There is no need for panic over the name HKU1, as it is a well-known common cold virus that has been detected in samples collected as far back as 24 years ago,” said Dr Jayadevan.
Dr Jayadevan explained that there are four common cold-causing coronaviruses: HKU1, NL63, OC43, and 229E. In contrast, three coronaviruses are known to cause severe disease: SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for Covid-19, MERS-CoV (Middle East Respiratory Syndrome virus), and SARS-CoV (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome virus).
“To summarise, HKU1 is a common cold-causing virus. It is not the same as Covid-19, it is not a new virus, and it has always been present. It likely originated from an animal, possibly a mouse,” Dr Jayadevan concluded.
Symptoms associated with human coronavirus HKU1 (HCoV-HKU1) include:
In severe cases, particularly among individuals with weakened immune systems, HKU1 can lead to pneumonia or bronchiolitis.
HKU1 spreads similarly to other respiratory viruses through:
Preventive Measures:
Seasonality & Risk Factors
Diagnosis:
HKU1 is rarely tested specifically but can be detected through PCR tests used for general respiratory viruses.
Treatment:
There is no specific antiviral therapy for HKU1. Supportive care includes:
“Precautionary measures include universal hygiene practices such as avoiding close contact with others if experiencing a fever, cough, or cold. Similarly, maintaining a safe distance from people showing respiratory symptoms and frequent handwashing, especially after visiting public places, can help prevent the spread of infection,” said Dr Jayadevan.
“Viruses tend to linger on commonly touched surfaces, making hygiene crucial. Individuals with underlying health conditions should take extra precautions to avoid infections—not just from coronaviruses but from viruses in general,” he added.
While HCoV-HKU1 is not as severe as SARS-CoV-2 (Covid-19), it remains a notable cause of seasonal respiratory infections, particularly in vulnerable populations.
(Edited by Muhammed Fazil.)
