Coronavirus infections

Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses that includes viruses that may cause a range of illnesses in humans, from the common cold to SARS. Viruses of this family also cause a number of animal diseases.

Novel coronavirus
This particular strain of coronavirus has not been previously identified in humans. There is very limited information on transmission, severity and clinical impact with only a small number of cases reported thus far.

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The World Health Organization (WHO) has been officially notified by the China National Health and Family Planning Commission about human infection (and deaths) with an influenza virus subtype A(H7N9) that has not been previously reported in humans. There is no indication of human-to-human transmission associated with these patients. WHO is working closely with its’ Collaborating Centres for influenza to discuss and strengthen diagnostics and treatment.

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A new outbreak of Nipah virus has been reported in Bangladesh in 2013, with 24 cases and 21 deaths till 02 April 2013 (mortality rate 88%). Fourteen districts have been affected, namely, Gaibandha, Natore, Rajshahi, Naogaon, Rajbari, Pabna, Jhenaidah, Mymensingh, Nilphamari, Chittagong, Kurigram, Kustia, Magura and Manikganj. The virus is believed to have been transmitted by the drinking of Nipah-contaminated raw date palm sap in all these cases. Human Nipah virus infection is an emerging zoonotic disease spread from fruit bats. In South-East Asia, the disease has been reported in Bangladesh and India.

• - more information from IEDCR, Bangladesh
• WHO fact sheet

From November 27th to December 3rd, WHO SEARO conducted a training workshop on “Strengthening Capacity for International Outbreak Response” in Medan and Berastagi, Indonesia. The training involved class-based interactive presentations as well as taking participants, supported by experienced mentors, through a realistic simulation of an outbreak ‘in the field’.

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