New bat coronavirus discovered in China sparks pandemic concerns

The identification of a novel bat coronavirus in China has raised alarms regarding the potential for another pandemic.

Designated as HKU5-CoV-2, this virus shares similarities with SARS-CoV-2, the pathogen responsible for COVID-19, as it also targets the human receptor known as angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE2), according to a report by the South China Morning Post.

Researchers have indicated that HKU5-CoV-2 may have the capacity for human-to-human transmission or even cross-species spread.

The research was spearheaded by Zheng-Li Shi at the Guangzhou Laboratory in Guangdong, China.

Dr. Shi, often referred to as the “batwoman,” previously worked at the Wuhan Institute of Virology, which has faced scrutiny as a potential origin of COVID-19. Nevertheless, she emphasized that the likelihood of such transmission remains “very low,” given that the binding affinity is weaker and the virus is “much less potent” than SARS-CoV-2.

Dr. Siegel remarked, “While we continue to explore potential human pathogens and prepare for possible pandemics, it is crucial that we do not succumb to fear.”

He added, “The COVID pandemic is the most severe in a century, but that does not imply that another outbreak is imminent from bird flu or any other source.”

In an ideal situation, Dr. Siegel suggested the formation of an international consortium of scientists to enhance global protection.

He noted, “This did not occur during the COVID pandemic, and a veil of secrecy persists. However, studies like this, published in a reputable journal, represent progress in the right direction.”