Cause of Pneumonia Outbreak in China 89% Similar to Bat-Derived SARS

[Asia Economy Reporter Cho Hyun-ui] The pneumonia outbreak originating in Wuhan, China, has been found to be caused by a novel pneumonia virus derived from bats, showing approximately 89% similarity to SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome).

The Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (KCDC) announced that after the World Health Organization (WHO) confirmed the cause of the cluster pneumonia in Wuhan as a novel coronavirus, they obtained and analyzed the corresponding genetic sequence.

According to the analysis by domestic health authorities, the cause of this pneumonia showed 89.1% homology (similarity) with a bat-derived SARS-like coronavirus. It showed 39-43% similarity with four types of human coronaviruses, 50% with Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS), and 77% with SARS.

However, at this stage, due to this level of homology, a direct link or toxicity with SARS cannot be confirmed, so further in-depth research is needed to verify virus classification, infectivity, and toxicity. Accordingly, the KCDC has begun additional analysis and the development of testing methods. They plan to develop a new testing method within one month and distribute it to local governments nationwide.

A KCDC official explained, "Unlike the pan-coronavirus test applied to suspected pneumonia patients, the new testing method uses the publicly available genetic sequence, allowing for faster results."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.