A Primer on the Eight Coronaviruses Known to Infect Humans

Pediatr Ann. 2022 May;51(5):e186-e190. doi: 10.3928/19382359-20220314-02. Epub 2022 May 1.

Abstract

Of the 45 currently recognized species of coronaviruses, eight are known to infect humans. All eight target the respiratory tract, with illness manifestations ranging from trivial cold-like symptoms to life-threatening severe acute respiratory syndrome. The origin of most coronaviruses pathogenic to humans appears to be from strains that first replicate in bats before spreading to other mammalian species, ultimately making their way to humans. The four recognized endemic coronaviruses only rarely cause severe illness, whereas outbreaks of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 1 and 2 and Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus-associated infections are linked with substantial morbidity and mortality. [Pediatr Ann. 2022;51(5):e186-e190.].

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Coronavirus Infections* / diagnosis
  • Coronavirus Infections* / epidemiology
  • Disease Outbreaks
  • Humans
  • Mammals
  • Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus*