Researchers in China have identified a new bat coronavirus, HKU5-CoV-2, with potential to infect humans. The virus has similarities to SARS-CoV-2 and was found to bind to human ACE2 receptors. Experts suggest there is less concern for a pandemic due to population immunity and lower binding affinity compared to SARS-CoV-2.
A newly identified bat coronavirus with potential for animal-to-human transmission has been discovered in China, raising concerns similar to those that surfaced during the COVID-19 pandemic. Named HKU5-CoV-2, the virus was found by a research team led by Shi Zhengli, who is recognized for her extensive work on coronaviruses at the Wuhan Institute, often referred to in discussions surrounding the origins of COVID-19.
HKU5-CoV-2 belongs to the merbecovirus subgenus, which also includes the MERS virus. Researchers have noted that this new virus has the ability to bind to human ACE2 receptors, which is a mechanism akin to that of SARS-CoV-2. Laboratory tests indicated that HKU5-CoV-2 could infect human cell cultures using organ models derived from human tissues.
The study highlighted the potential zoonotic risk associated with bat merbecoviruses due to their genetic relationship to MERS-CoV. While the researchers emphasized the possibility of direct transmission or through intermediate hosts, they concluded that further investigation is necessary to confirm the risk of spillover into humans.
Dr. Michael Osterholm, an infectious disease expert at the University of Minnesota, commented on the potential for another pandemic, stating that the public’s reaction to the study may be overblown. He indicated that the population has greater immunity to similar SARS viruses compared to 2019, which could mitigate pandemic risks. The study suggests that HKU5-CoV-2 exhibits significantly less binding affinity to human ACE2 compared to SARS-CoV-2, and other factors suggest a lower likelihood of emergence in human populations.
In summary, the discovery of HKU5-CoV-2 presents questions about zoonotic transmission and public health implications. However, experts advise caution in assessing the risk of a new pandemic, as current population immunity and biological characteristics of the virus suggest a reduced threat.
The recent discovery of HKU5-CoV-2 has prompted investigations into its potential for animal-to-human transmission. While the virus exhibits similarities to SARS-CoV-2, experts have indicated that the existing immunity within the population may lower the risk of a new pandemic. Ongoing research will be essential to assess the true risk posed by this virus to human health.
Original Source: www.ndtv.com
