New Bat Coronavirus HKU5-CoV-2 Identified in China, Potential Human Transmission Risk
Beijing/Hyderabad, Feb 22 (Maxim News): A team of Chinese virologists has discovered a new bat coronavirus, HKU5-CoV-2, which could potentially infect humans. The research, led by renowned scientist Shi Zhengli—often referred to as “Batwoman” for her extensive work on coronaviruses—has raised concerns over the possibility of another zoonotic spillover.
According to the South China Morning Post, the newly identified virus has shown the ability to bind to human ACE2 receptors—the same entry point used by SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic. This similarity suggests there could be a risk of human transmission, though scientists stress that further research is needed to assess its real-world impact.
HKU5-CoV-2 belongs to the merbecovirus subgenus, which also includes the MERS-CoV virus responsible for the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome outbreak. Early findings, as reported by Newsweek, indicate that HKU5-CoV-2 demonstrates a stronger ability to adapt to human ACE2 receptors compared to other viruses within the same lineage.
Laboratory tests revealed that the virus successfully infected human cell cultures and miniature human organ models, raising concerns about its potential to jump from animals to humans.
The study highlights the significant threat posed by bat-borne merbecoviruses, which could potentially transmit to humans either directly or through intermediate hosts. However, researchers caution that more extensive investigation is needed to determine the likelihood of actual human infection and disease development.
While China has consistently rejected theories linking COVID-19 to a lab leak, the Wuhan Institute of Virology remains under global scrutiny. The discovery of HKU5-CoV-2 underscores the urgent need for continued monitoring of bat coronaviruses to assess potential public health risks.
At this stage, it remains unclear whether HKU5-CoV-2 poses an immediate health threat. However, scientists emphasize the importance of maintaining strict surveillance and enhancing global preparedness to prevent future pandemics. (Maxim News)
More Stories…
Traffic Home Guard Injured In Bahadurpura Hit-and-Run
![Traffic Home Guard Injured In Bahadurpura Hit-and-Run]()
A traffic home guard was injured in a hit and run incident on Bahadurpura road in Hyderabad on Tuesday, triggering a police investigation to trace the offending biker. The incident occurred while the home guard was performing official duties related to traffic management and enforcement.
Committee Headed By Retired Judge To Take Up Reorganisation Of Districts In Telangana; Report In Six Months
![Committee Headed By Retired Judge To Take Up Reorganisation Of Districts In Telangana; Report In Six Months]()
Hyderabad, Jan 13 (Maxim News): Chief Minister Revanth Reddy made a key announcement. He revealed that a committee will be formed with retired judges and retired officers on the reorganization of districts. He said that a report will be submitted on this within at least six months.
Hyderabad Police Warn Against Rising OTP Fraud Cases
![Hyderabad Police Warn Against Rising OTP Fraud Cases]()
Hyderabad, Jan 13 (Maxim News) The Hyderabad Police have issued a public alert cautioning citizens against a surge in fraud involving One-Time Passwords (OTPs), which cybercriminals are using to gain illegal access to bank accounts, digital wallets, credit cards and personal data.
Now you can get the latest stories from Indtoday on Telegram every day. Click the link to subscribe. Click to follow Indtoday’s Facebook page, Twitter and Instagram. For all the latest Hyderabad News update
