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A 45-year-old woman from Garia, Kolkata, has been diagnosed with human coronavirus HKU1 (HCoV-HKU1) and is currently receiving treatment at a private hospital in South Kolkata.
She had been suffering from fever, cough, and cold for the past 15 days, but doctors have confirmed that her condition is stable.
While HCoV-HKU1 is not as well-known as COVID-19, it is still a respiratory virus that can cause cold-like symptoms and, in rare cases, severe infections. Health experts stress that there is no need to panic, but it’s important to understand the symptoms, risks, and preventive measures.
What Is Human Coronavirus HKU1?
Human coronavirus HKU1 (HCoV-HKU1) belongs to the Betacoronavirus family, the same group that includes SARS and MERS.
However, unlike SARS-CoV-2, which caused the COVID-19 pandemic, HKU1 primarily leads to mild respiratory illnesses.
In some cases, especially among those with weakened immune systems, it can progress to severe lung infections such as pneumonia or bronchiolitis.
Symptoms of Human Coronavirus HKU1
Most cases resemble a seasonal flu or common cold and include:
Runny nose or nasal congestion
Sore throat
Fever
Sneezing
Fatigue
Headache
In severe cases: shortness of breath, pneumonia, or bronchitis
While most people recover on their own, elderly individuals, young children, and those with weakened immune systems may experience complications requiring medical attention.
Who Is at Risk?
Although HCoV-HKU1 is not widely known, certain groups are more vulnerable:
Infants and young children
People with chronic lung diseases (e.g., asthma, COPD)
Immunocompromised individuals (e.g., chemotherapy patients, organ transplant recipients, HIV/AIDS patients)
People with underlying conditions (e.g., diabetes, heart disease)
For healthy adults, the infection typically remains mild, similar to a common cold.
How Does It Spread?
Like other respiratory viruses, HCoV-HKU1 spreads through:
Close contact with an infected person
Touching contaminated surfaces and then touching your face, mouth, or nose
Respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing
How to Protect Yourself
Currently, there is no vaccine or antiviral treatment for HCoV-HKU1, but basic hygiene can help prevent infection:
Wash hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
Wear a mask in crowded or high-risk areas
Avoid close contact with people showing symptoms of respiratory infections
Disinfect frequently touched surfaces like doorknobs, mobile phones, and countertops
Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing to prevent droplet spread
Boost your immunity with a balanced diet, hydration, and proper sleep
Should You Be Worried?
Doctors treating the Kolkata patient have assured that this is an isolated case and not an outbreak.
While HCoV-HKU1 is not new, it is rarely tested for, as its symptoms closely resemble other seasonal respiratory infections.
Health experts emphasize staying informed but not panicking, as basic precautions can help keep you safe and healthy.
