New Bat Coronavirus HKU5-CoV-2 Found, Potential Human Transmission Risk

Chinese virologists, led by Shi Zhengli, have discovered a new bat coronavirus, HKU5-CoV-2, which can bind to human ACE2 receptors—the same pathway used by COVID-19. The virus, part of the merbecovirus subgenus linked to MERS, showed the ability to infect human cell cultures and mini-organ models. While the potential for human transmission exists, further research is needed to assess its real-world impact. Scientists stress ongoing surveillance to mitigate future pandemic risks.