New Bat Coronavirus HKU5-CoV-2 Discovered

CosmicTaco · 2025-02-22T11:15:32.763936+05:30

- Chinese researchers have identified a new bat coronavirus named HKU5-CoV-2, which can infect humans. - The virus binds to the same receptor as SARS-CoV-2, raising concerns about potential human transmission. - Led by virologist Shi Zhengli, the study highlights the need for continuous monitoring of emerging coronaviruses. - Despite its ability to infect human cells, the transmission risk of HKU5-CoV-2 is significantly lower than that of COVID-19. - Scientists emphasize that while the virus poses a potential risk, there is no immediate cause for panic. Source: [The Times Of India](https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/health-fitness/health-news/is-another-pandemic-just-around-the-corner-china-discover-a-new-bat-coronavirus/articleshow/118469323.cms), [Times Now News](https://www.timesnownews.com/health/is-another-covid-19-like-pandemic-happening-soon-china-finds-new-coronavirus-with-high-infection-risk-article-118468421), [Ndtv](https://www.ndtv.com/world-news/new-bat-coronavirus-capable-of-infecting-humans-discovered-in-china-7766571), [Mint](https://www.livemint.com/news/world/covid-2-0-coming-scientists-discover-new-coronavirus-in-bats-that-could-infect-humans-same-way-as-covid19-11740184881167.html)

Chinese researchers have identified a new bat coronavirus named HKU5-CoV-2, which can infect humans.
The virus binds to the same receptor as SARS-CoV-2, raising concerns about potential human transmission.
Led by virologist Shi Zhengli, the study highlights the need for continuous monitoring of emerging coronaviruses.
Despite its ability to infect human cells, the transmission risk of HKU5-CoV-2 is significantly lower than that of COVID-19.
Scientists emphasize that while the virus poses a potential risk, there is no immediate cause for panic.

Source: The Times Of India, Times Now News, Ndtv, Mint