New virus similar to COVID identified in China!
Researchers in China have identified a new virus, HKU5-CoV-2, which is similar to COVID-19 and may be transmitted from animals to humans. This discovery, made in bats, has raised concerns about its potential spread. The virus is related to MERS-CoV and has a lower transmissibility compared to COVID-19.
Beijing: Researchers in China have identified a new virus similar to COVID-19. It is believed to have the potential to be transmitted from animals to humans. This new virus, discovered in bats, has been named HKU5-CoV-2. It has been found to be similar to SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19. According to reports from Hong Kong’s South China Morning Post, renowned virologist Shi Zhengli, known as "Bat Woman" for her extensive research on bat coronaviruses, led the research team.
The research paper related to the virus has been reviewed and published in Cell Journal. The study involved scientists from the Gangzhou Laboratory, Gangzhou Academy of Sciences, Wuhan University, and the Wuhan Institute of Virology. Researchers have identified this virus as part of the Merbecovirus genus, closely related to the deadly MERS-CoV (Middle East Respiratory Syndrome).
The virus has been classified under the HKU5 coronavirus lineage. Initially, it was discovered in Japanese pipistrelle bats in Hong Kong. Recent research suggests that HKU5-CoV-2 may spread to humans either directly or through intermediate hosts. However, scientists believe that its potential for transmission is lower compared to COVID-19.
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