Why Hasn't COVID-19 Been Given a Proper Name?
When it comes to naming viruses, precision and clarity are crucial. Yet, amidst the global pandemic, the term ldquo;coronavirusrdquo; has become the go-to descriptor for SARS CoV-2, the cause of COVID-19. Why haven't we given this virus a more specific and memorable name like ldquo;cyber killer virusrdquo; or ldquo;cyber-terror virusrdquo;? Letrsquo;s peel back the layers and uncover why the name COVID-19 has stayed, as it has, and the significance of the term ldquo;coronavirusrdquo;.
From SARS CoV-2 to COVID-19: The Naming Process
It's important to note that the virus isn't simply called a coronavirus because of its appearance under a microscope. The ldquo;coronavirus familyrdquo; refers to a large group of viruses that share a crown-like spike on their surface (the Latin word for crown is ldquo;coronardquo;). Here's why we've stuck with the term ldquo;coronavirusrdquo;:
Crown-Shaped Virus A Historical Perspective
The term ldquo;coronavirusrdquo; was coined by scientists who first observed the virus under an electron microscope. The virus's spike-like structures resemble the crown of a sun during an eclipse, hence the name. This was a historical reference, and the term has stuck over the years.
Why Not a More Memorable Name?
The true nature of a virus is deeply complex. Naming it a ldquo;cyber killer virusrdquo; or ldquo;cyber-terror virusrdquo; would not be accurate or scientific. These names might be catchy but they donrsquo;t provide the necessary clarity and precision that medical and scientific communities demand.
The Coronavirus Family: SARS, MERS, and Beyond
It's not that coronavirus is just a generic term. This family includes other notable viruses like SARS and MERS (Middle East Respiratory Syndrome). All these viruses share common characteristics, making ldquo;coronavirusrdquo; an adequate and streamlined name.
Why SARS CoV-2 Became COVID-19
While SARS CoV-2 is the official name for the virus, the name ldquo;COVID-19rdquo; was adopted to describe the disease it causes. SARS-CoV-2 stands for Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2. The ldquo;2rdquo; is a designation for a new strain in the SARS lineage. The name ldquo;SARS-CoV-2rdquo; was chosen for its straightforwardness and to avoid confusion with the previous SARS virus (SARS-CoV-1).
Medical and Public Health Considerations
The naming of viruses is not just an academic exercise. It has significant implications for medical and public health responses. Clear and concise names allow for rapid communication and understanding among health professionals, public health officials, and the general public.
Conclusion: Precision in Naming is Crucial
While the term ldquo;coronavirusrdquo; might seem generic, it is a scientifically accurate description of the virus's appearance. The real challenge lies in providing the public with the necessary information in a manner that is both clear and comprehensive. This is why ldquo;COVID-19rdquo; was adopted to describe the disease, while ldquo;coronavirusrdquo; remains the preferred term for medical professionals and scientists.
In the ongoing battle against viruses, precision and clarity in naming are vital for effective communication, research, and public health responses. The term ldquo;coronavirusrdquo; has stood the test of time, and its use helps maintain a scientific and accurate understanding of the virus in question.