Identify strange virus causing pneumonia in China

The scientists identified the strange lung disease virus in Wuhan, causing 59 people hospitalized as a completely new strain of the corona family.

The information was released on January 9, after more than a week of experts collecting samples and analyzing gene sequences taken from patients with acute pneumonia in China.

New viruses have never been recorded before.

Corona virus is found in the body of animals such as birds, mice, poultry or rodents. Strains of virus 229E and OC43 (also known as human coronavirus) cause common respiratory diseases. Meanwhile, SARS and MERS, two extremely dangerous diseases also originate from the corona virus.

Medical surveillance team with body temperature meter at Hong Kong airport.(Photo: Associated Press).

Currently, there is no evidence that viruses can be transmitted from person to person. The World Health Organization says more information is needed to confirm a pathogen. The initial cases of pneumonia were linked to the Huannan seafood market in Wuhan.

Health officials fear pneumonia could worsen when tens of millions of Chinese people travel around the Chinese New Year holiday.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has asked hospitals in states to report suspected new viral strains of pneumonia. Many health agencies in Asia have also increased screening and isolation of patients with pneumonia. Singapore, Hong Kong and Taiwan conduct medical checks at the airport, preventing the spread of disease. The Ministry of Health of Vietnam from January 4 to now has also strengthened health control at border gates, hospitals, and prevention of invasive acute pneumonia.

Experts said that they will continue to study the origin of the virus, the transmission mechanism and the clinical symptoms of patients to promptly respond.

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