CORONAVIRUS ANIMAUX ET HUMAINS: Évolution and pathogénicité du virus prévention des maladies

Abstract

The most recently discovered Human coronavirus, Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome - Coronavirus - 2 (SARS-CoV-2), is certainly the best-known coronavirus of all, as it is considered a successful invader. First identified in late 2019, it generated the current pandemic of coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID-19) when it spread across the planet in only a few months. Like some other members of the same family of viruses, SARS-CoV-2 can infect different types of human cells, however, the epithelia of the lungs and larynx are the main targets thus preferentially causing respiratory infections. Mortality associated with COVID-19 alongside the impacts on health, education, the economy and individual and social well-being are currently a concern for the whole world. These are not only due to the effects of the disease, but also the pandemic control measures imposed by governments across the world, namely mandatory isolation, and we are still looking to adapt to this new way of life alongside a virus that was previously unknown. However, humans and other animal species have long lived side by side with other coronaviruses, many of which unknown to most people, some quite harmless whilst other potentially lethal. In that sense, this is no different.

This book aims to assemble and disseminate information about the origin, evolution and pathogenesis of animal and human coronaviruses in a simple and accessible way, and through this clarify readers’ doubts and fears as well as the rationale underlying transmission prevention actions.

The main text of the manuscript is accompanied by two types of additional information for optional consultation; more in-depth information about some of the mentioned concepts (know more) and a set of questions & answers, providing the reader with the opportunity to clarify doubts relating to the content of each section. For the preparation of this book, we counted on the collaboration of technicians, researchers and academics in the areas of microbiology, epidemiology, animal health and public health. During the production and editing process, a board game and cards (Beat Corona) were also produced. These further explored some of the concepts mentioned in this book, including behaviours related to life in society and their implications in the transmission of diseases caused by coronaviruses, including COVID-19. This game can be used as a pedagogical resource in the classroom context, or as a mere leisure and learning activity.