Abstract
The novel coronavirus, otherwise known as COVID-19 has fast become a major health concern. The current pandemic caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARSCoV‐ 2) is the third coronavirus outbreak, following severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) and Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS) coronaviruses. Since the initial cases of a pneumonia of unknown aetiology, which was later identified as COVID-19 in Wuhan, Hubei province, China, there has been much debate and speculation regarding the origins of this novel virus. This review aims to provide an insight into the origin of SARS-CoV-2 by reflecting on genomic data gathered thus far. Identifying the origins of SARS-CoV-2 can lead to better understanding of hidden viral reservoirs that may exist and pose a threat to society as well as allow greater understanding of the mechanisms by which these viruses have successfully achieved cross species transmission. Greater knowledge in regard to this can lead to the development of strategies which can aid in preventing future outbreaks of this scale.
 Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol.19(0) 2020 p. p. S 85-S 87
Highlights
On 31 December 2019, a significant number of cases were reported to be suffering from a viral pneumonia of unknown cause in Wuhan Hubei Province, China[1]
This particular pneumonia was identified as the novel coronavirus and is labelled as COVID-19
Not long after its discovery, the International Committee on Taxonomy of Viruses renamed the virus as severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARSCOV-2)[2]
Summary
On 31 December 2019, a significant number of cases were reported to be suffering from a viral pneumonia of unknown cause in Wuhan Hubei Province, China[1]. The SARS-CoV-2 outbreak has increased the number of identified coronaviruses that infect humans to seven. Among the subtypes that can infect humans, beta coronaviruses tend to cause more severe disease and fatalities and have far been identified as the only family to lead to viral outbreaks[3].
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
