New Bat Coronavirus Found in China: Should We Be Worried?

Researchers in China have identified a new bat coronavirus, named HKU5-CoV-2, that has the potential to infect humans. This virus uses the same cell-surface protein as SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19. The study was led by virologist Shi Zhengli, also known as "batwoman," due to her extensive research on bat coronaviruses.

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What is HKU5-CoV-2?

The newly discovered virus belongs to the merbecovirus subgenus, which includes the virus that causes Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS). While HKU5-CoV-2 was found in bats, scientists are still investigating how it spreads to humans.

Unlike SARS-CoV-2, this virus has a lower ability to infect human cells. However, lab experiments showed that HKU5-CoV-2 could infect human cells with high ACE2 levels. Researchers have also identified antibodies and antiviral drugs that may be effective against it.

Shi Zhengli: The 'Batwoman' Leading the Research

Shi Zhengli, a top Chinese virologist, led this study along with experts from Guangzhou Academy of Sciences, Wuhan University, and the Wuhan Institute of Virology. Shi is widely known for her research on bat coronaviruses and was involved in COVID-19 studies. Some theories suggest COVID-19 originated from a Wuhan lab, but Shi has denied these claims, and there is no conclusive evidence supporting this theory.

Is HKU5-CoV-2 a Threat to Humans?

According to researchers, HKU5-CoV-2 does not enter human cells as easily as SARS-CoV-2. The virus has a weaker binding ability to human ACE2 receptors, suggesting that its risk to humans is currently low.

Michael Osterholm, an infectious disease expert from the University of Minnesota, has stated that the reaction to this discovery is exaggerated. He believes that due to existing immunity in the population, the chances of a new pandemic from this virus are minimal.

The Legacy of COVID-19

The COVID-19 pandemic began in December 2019 and quickly spread worldwide. By February 2025, it had resulted in over 7 million deaths, making it one of the deadliest pandemics in history.

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