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Scientists at the Wuhan Institute of Virology in China recently announced the discovery of a new coronavirus strain called HKU5-CoV-2, which originates from bats. This virus can enter human cells using the ACE2 receptor, the same mechanism that facilitated the rapid spread of SARS-CoV-2 during the Covid-19 pandemic.
The discovery was led by renowned virologist Shi Zheng-Li, who has been at the forefront of bat virus research. “Although no human infections have been reported so far, HKU5-CoV-2 presents a potential threat that should not be ignored,” she stated. This revelation has heightened concerns among scientists and caused vaccine stocks to surge.
Bats as Virus Hosts
Researchers collected the HKU5-CoV-2 strain from Pipistrellus bats across several Chinese provinces. The virus belongs to the same coronavirus lineage as MERS, though it is only distantly related to SARS-CoV-2. Nevertheless, HKU5-CoV-2 has the ability to infect various mammal species, raising further concern about its transmission potential.
No Human Infections Detected Yet
“There is no evidence to suggest that the virus has infected humans,” added Shi. However, given that HKU5-CoV-2 can bind to the ACE2 receptor in human cells, more research is needed to assess the risk it may pose.
A New Pandemic Threat?
With the ongoing urbanization, deforestation, and climate change, new viruses are emerging at an accelerated pace, particularly zoonotic viruses like HKU5-CoV-2. Scientists warn that while medical advancements can help combat these threats, the risk of new disease outbreaks remains high in our interconnected world.
Could we be facing another pandemic if this virus spreads unchecked? Only time will tell, but one thing is clear: the global community cannot afford to ignore the rising threat from animal-borne viruses like HKU5-CoV-2.