A new bat coronavirus, HKU5-CoV-2, has been discovered in China, sparking discussions about its potential for animal-to-human transmission. The virus was identified by Shi Zhengli, a leading researcher at the Wuhan Institute of Virology, and belongs to the merbecovirus subgenus, which also includes the MERS virus.
According to a report by the South China Morning Post, HKU5-CoV-2 has a structure that allows it to bind to human ACE2 receptors, similar to the SARS-CoV-2 virus responsible for COVID-19. However, while lab studies indicate that the virus can infect human cell lines and organoids, its affinity for human ACE2 receptors is lower than that of SARS-CoV-2, reducing its likelihood of causing widespread infection.
Despite concerns, experts urge caution rather than panic. Dr. Michael Osterholm, an infectious disease specialist, has called public fears exaggerated, highlighting that the post-COVID-19 immune landscape may reduce the risk of another pandemic. While HKU5-CoV-2 can enter human cells, its replication and transmission efficiency remain limited compared to previous coronaviruses.
Scientists continue to monitor the virus, stressing the importance of vigilance and further research rather than alarm.
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