[A photo of a black bat on brown stone. Photo Credit to Pexels]

On February 21, 2025, Chinese researchers discovered a new coronavirus from a bat that has a potential to spread to humans.

They identified a virus called HKU5-coV-2 in a Wuhan laboratory, the same city where the COVID-19 virus was first identified.

The research was led by Shi Zhengl, who is known as ‘batwoman’ for her expertise on bat viruses.

HKU5-coV-2 falls into the Merbecovirus group, which causes problems in the respiratory system.

This virus has the ability to bind to human ACE2 receptors and is more infectious and deadly than other coronaviruses.

This can be deadly because it can cause problems in breathing, which is the same way COVID-19 infected humans.

However, scientists explained that this virus does not easily enter human cells like the virus that causes COVID-19.

“Newly identified viruses in animals, such as HKU5-CoV-2, are a reminder that we must remain alert and keep people informed about potential disease threats without suggesting every new virus could lead to a new human pandemic,” says Professor David Heymann of the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine.

Experts say that these kinds of viruses from bats typically spread to humans through intermediate animals, so constant research is needed.

Scientists are concerned about the potential for animal-to-human transmission.

Previous outbreaks, such as SARS and MERS, were linked to coronaviruses that originated in bats before jumping to humans through intermediary hosts like civets and camels.

If HKU5-CoV-2 follows a similar pattern, it could pose a future health risk.

Researchers emphasize the importance of early detection and surveillance to prevent potential outbreaks.

Monitoring bat populations and studying their viruses in detail can help identify dangerous pathogens before they spread widely.

Experts emphasize the need to understand human activities that increase exposure to these viruses.

Deforestation, wildlife trade, and habitat destruction can bring animals that carry viruses closer to humans, increasing the chances of infection.

Cooperation and ongoing research are essential to fight against emerging diseases.

Though HKU5-Cov-2 has not been discovered among humans, experts recommend governments and health organizations prepare for any contingencies.

Strengthening disease surveillance, improving public health systems, and developing antiviral treatments could help prevent future pandemic risks.

Researchers highlight the need for countries to work together in dealing with health issues.

Sharing information and scientific discoveries worldwide can help develop strategies to stop new problems before they happen.

Investing in new medical technology and vaccines can also help counter viruses more quickly.

Teaching people about how viruses spread is also crucial, as public awareness campaigns can help people understand how to protect themselves from diseases.

Scientists suggest that stricter safety regulations regarding wildlife could help stop viruses from spreading from animals to humans.

Scientists will continue to study HKU5-CoV-2 in labs to see if it could change and become dangerous to humans.

Although the infection risk in humans currently appears very low, being ready and prepared can be the best way to prevent another pandemic.

Lessons learned from the COVID-19 global outbreak are informing efforts to prevent a similar worldwide spread of potential new viral threats.