RNA viruses that cause the common cold Flashcards
1
Q
What two virus types cause the common cold?
A
rhinovirus (a picorna) and coronavirus
2
Q
What is worse presentation of coronavirus than common cold?
A
SARS - Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome
3
Q
Mode of transmission of SARS?
A
Contact of mucous membranes with infectious respiratory droplets.
4
Q
Clinical presentation of SARS?
A
Fevers, myalgias, pleurisy, and dyspnea. (Not much rhinorrhea and sore throat, surprisingly). –> alveolar consolidation –> ARDS. 20-30% required ICU care, 8% mortality.
5
Q
Why is rhinovirus not an enterovirus like the other picornas?
A
It is acid-labile and gets destroyed by the stomach acid.
