Question

Which of the following diseases is not associated with coronavirus infections? a. Middle East respiratory syndrome b. German measles c. the common cold d. severe acute respiratory syndrome

Short answer

German measles

Step-by-step solution

Identify diseases related to coronavirus

Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses that cause illnesses ranging from the common cold to more severe diseases. Specifically, Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS) and severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) are caused by coronaviruses.

Examine each option

Go through each option to determine which is caused by coronaviruses: 1. Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS) – caused by a coronavirus. 2. German measles – caused by the rubella virus, not a coronavirus. 3. The common cold – can be caused by coronaviruses among other virus types. 4. Severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) – caused by a coronavirus.

Determine the odd one out

Identify the disease not caused by a coronavirus: German measles (caused by the rubella virus).

Key concepts

Middle East respiratory syndrome

Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS) is a viral respiratory illness first reported in Saudi Arabia in 2012. It's caused by the Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV). Patients with MERS often experience severe symptoms such as fever, cough, and shortness of breath.
MERS can lead to pneumonia and kidney failure in severe cases. The virus spreads from person to person through close contact, for example, within families or in healthcare settings. Handling and consuming camels is also a known risk factor, since they are considered to be a primary host of the virus.

German measles

German measles, also known as rubella, is not caused by a coronavirus. Instead, it is caused by the rubella virus. The primary symptoms of rubella include a red rash, swollen lymph nodes, and mild fever.
This disease is most serious in pregnant women as it can cause severe birth defects or miscarriage. Rubella is highly contagious and spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent rubella, and in many countries, the rubella vaccine is combined with measles and mumps vaccines.

Common cold

The common cold is a viral infection that often affects the nose and throat. It can be caused by several types of viruses, including rhinoviruses and coronaviruses. Symptoms typically include a runny nose, sore throat, coughing, sneezing, headaches, and body aches.
Unlike other coronavirus-caused diseases like MERS and SARS, the common cold is typically mild and self-limiting.

• Adequate rest
• Hydration
• Over-the-counter medications

are usually sufficient for recovery. Preventive measures such as frequent handwashing and avoiding close contact with sick individuals can help reduce the risk of catching a cold.

Severe acute respiratory syndrome

Severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) is another illness caused by a coronavirus, specifically the SARS-CoV. SARS first emerged in China in 2002 and quickly spread to other countries, causing a global health threat.
Symptoms of SARS include high fever, chills, muscle aches, and later respiratory symptoms like coughing and shortness of breath. In severe cases, the disease can lead to pneumonia and respiratory failure. Similar to MERS, SARS spreads through close person-to-person contact.
Measures to control SARS outbreaks often include isolating patients, using personal protective equipment like masks for healthcare workers, and implementing travel restrictions.