Scientists find new virus that could infect humans in same way as COVID-19 | Science, Climate & Tech News

new Bat Coronavirus: Potential Threat or Overblown Concern?

A newly discovered bat coronavirus, HKU5-CoV-2, has raised concerns about its potential to spread to humans, similar to the COVID-19 pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2. While research indicates that HKU5-CoV-2 does not enter human cells as efficiently as SARS-CoV-2, its ability to utilize the same cell-surface protein, ACE2, for entry raises alarm bells.

Sharing Key Pathways with SARS-CoV-2

Scientists at the University of Minnesota, reporting their findings in the journal Cell, discovered that HKU5-CoV-2 readily infected human cells with high ACE2 levels in laboratory settings. This included models of human intestines and airways, highlighting a potential route for infection.

“The virus has substantially less binding affinity than SARS-cov-2,” the study noted, providing a glimmer of hope.

fighting Back: Antibodies and Antivirals

Despite the concerning similarities, the research offers a ray of hope. Scientists identified antibodies and antiviral drugs capable of targeting HKU5-CoV-2, suggesting potential treatment avenues should the virus pose a important threat.

Expert Weighs In: “Overblown” Reaction?

Dr. Michael Osterholm, a renowned infectious disease expert at the University of Minnesota, cautioned against an overreaction to the research findings.

“There is a lot of immunity in the population to similar COVID-19 and SARS viruses compared with 2019,” Dr. Osterholm explained, pointing to the existing immunity as a potential protective factor.

A Call for Vigilance and Preparedness

While the threat posed by HKU5-CoV-2 remains uncertain, the discovery underscores the ongoing risk of zoonotic diseases emerging and spreading. Sustained surveillance, research, and progress of countermeasures are crucial for mitigating the potential impact of future pandemics.

How can sustained surveillance and research help us prepare for future pandemics,especially in light of the HKU5-CoV-2 discovery?

Interview: Unraveling the Mystery of HKU5-CoV-2 with dr. Amélie Leclair, Virologist & Infectious Disease Specialist

archyde News Editor:

Thank you, Dr. Leclair,for joining us today to discuss the newly discovered bat coronavirus,HKU5-CoV-2. Your insights will certainly help our readers better understand this potential threat.

Dr.Amélie Leclair:

My pleasure. I’m eager to shed some light on this topic.

Archyde News Editor:

Let’s dive right in. what are the key takeaways from the University of Minnesota study on HKU5-cov-2?

Dr. Amélie Leclair:

Well,the study found that HKU5-CoV-2,while less efficient than SARS-CoV-2 in entering human cells,can still use the ACE2 receptor to do so. This was demonstrated in both intestinal and airway cell models. However, it’s important to note that it has a considerably lower binding affinity than SARS-CoV-2.

archyde News Editor:

That’s captivating. There seems to be a ray of hope in that lower binding affinity. Could you elaborate on the potential treatments identified in the study?

Dr. Amélie Leclair:

Certainly. The study identified certain antibodies and antiviral drugs that can target HKU5-CoV-2, showing potential in treating infections caused by this virus. This is encouraging, as it suggests we might have weapons ready if HKU5-CoV-2 ever posed a significant threat to humans.

Archyde News Editor:

Now,let’s address the elephant in the room.dr. Michael Osterholm has cautioned against an overreaction to these findings. What’s your take on this?

Dr. Amélie Leclair:

Dr. Osterholm is right. While we shouldn’t dismiss HKU5-CoV-2 as a potential threat, it’s also crucial not to panic. We’ve gained significant insight into coronaviruses since the COVID-19 pandemic. This existing knowledge and immunity in the population could help mitigate the impact should HKU5-CoV-2 bridge the species barrier.

Archyde News Editor:

Indeed, that’s a valid point. Lastly, Dr.Leclair, what can we learn from this discovery that could help us prepare for future pandemics?

Dr. Amélie Leclair:

The primary lesson here is that we must maintain constant vigilance. Sustained surveillance, robust research, and continued development of countermeasures are our best tools against emerging zoonotic diseases. The more prepared we are, the better equipped we’ll be to face whatever comes our way.

Archyde News Editor:

Thank you for giving us a complete look at HKU5-CoV-2, Dr. Leclair.Your expertise has certainly helped put things into outlook.