Discussion 2: Biology & control of SARS-CoV-2 (Covid-19 virus)

We are currently in an unprecedented situation with the novel coronavirus. This virus is part of a larger family of coronaviruses that is common in people and other animals. This particular virus, called SARS-CoV-2, gives rise to the disease, COVID-19. “CO” stands for corona and “VI” stands for virus and “D” for disease with 19 indicating the year 2019, in which the outbreak initially occurred in humans. This respiratory disease has many symptoms including fever, cough and shortness of breath with the most severe illness in older adults and among those with pre-existing health conditions.

A reliable source of information about our present Covid-19 pandemic is the Center for Disease Control and Protection (CDC; www.cdc.gov ). The CDC is a branch of our national Department of Health and Human Services with a mission to fight disease and support communities and citizens of America. Another reliable source is the World Health Organization (WHO; www.who.int ) which leads global health responses. Both collaborative organizations base information on extensive research. Please visit the Center for Disease and Prevention website to browse for important information.

To participate in this discussion forum,  watch this  https://m.youtube.com/watch?feature=youtu.be&v=BtN-goy9VOY) for an overview of this particular coronavirus.  

1. a reason why coronaviruses (as well as other viruses) are not considered truly alive and your own opinion on whether you agree or disagree with that idea
2. a list of the 3 most useful strategies to combat the pandemic and your opinion on whether the U.S. government is implementing those strategies effectively.

Discussion 2: Biology & control of SARS-CoV-2 (Covid-19 virus) Answer

1. Corona viruses are not living organisms but only a part of a living organism’s body composed of a genetic material (either RNA or DNA) and a protein capsule that serves as its protection and means of adhesion. This type of thing can only reproduce and live longer when inside the body of a living host such as the animals and humans they infect. Their lifespan is limited even if they are inside the host, as proven by the self-limiting characteristic of a viral infection that normally resolves for a week or two even without medications. Without a host, viruses can only survive in non-living surfaces for less than a day.