06 Jul , 12:14
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In the Chinese province of Yunnan, 22 potentially dangerous viruses have been discovered in bats, 20 of which were previously unknown to science. The discovery is causing alarm among specialists against the backdrop of the world's ongoing recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.
As reported by TUT.AZ, of particular concern are two viruses genetically related to the Henipavirus family. These pathogens can cause severe encephalitis and serious respiratory failure, attacking human brain tissue and respiratory system.
The study revealed that the genetic structure of the discovered viruses has 52-71% similarity with already known deadly viruses, which significantly increases the risk of their potential transmission to humans.
A concerning factor is the detection of viruses in bat kidneys, indicating the possibility of their spread through urine into the environment. This creates a risk of human infection through fruits and water, especially in areas where bats live near fruit orchards.
According to the World Health Organization, pathogens related to the discovered viruses are extremely dangerous: the Nipah virus has a mortality rate of 40-75%, and the Hendra virus - 57%. Currently, there are no effective drugs or vaccines against the new viruses.
A new bacterium - Flavobacterium yunnanensis and a parasite called Klossiella yunnanensis were also found in bats, confirming the role of these animals as reservoirs of diverse microorganisms.
Although no human infections have been reported so far, scientists are calling for increased vigilance and strengthening of global epidemiological surveillance systems.
