New viruses dangerous to humans found in bats: Scientists warn

Relentless research by Chinese scientists: A new health threat for humans discovered in bats

Whenever it comes to the health and safety of all humanity, the mysterious and, at the same time, still unexplored world of nature comes into focus. This time, the attention of scientists was drawn to bats, and as a result, a very serious warning news sounded for the whole world.

What viruses did Chinese scientists discover?

Scientists from the Institute for Endemic Disease Control of China deeply examined bats in Yunnan Province for four years. As a result, they found 22 viruses, of which 20 were previously unknown to science. Among them, two new viruses from the Henipavirus genus, closely related to Nipah and Hendra viruses, were discovered.

These viruses can have a very severe effect on the human body, in particular, causing encephalitis and respiratory diseases. It should be noted that Nipah and Hendra viruses are known for their high mortality rate among humans.

Why are bats a source of dangerous pathogens?

Bats are recognized by nature as a “reservoir” for various microorganisms — viruses, bacteria, parasites, and even fungi. However, until now, many studies have been carried out via bat droppings, which could not show the complete picture. Recently, scientists have started to study all microorganisms in bat kidneys using advanced genetic analyses.

When the kidneys of 142 bats from ten species, collected from five regions, were examined, in addition to the above-mentioned viruses, a new single-celled parasite called Klossiella yunnanensis and a new bacterial species named Flavobacterium yunnanensis were also identified.

What is the risk and how can it affect people?

The notable point in the study is that the discovered viruses were found in bats living in fruit orchards near human settlements. This indicates that viruses can easily be transmitted to humans and livestock through fruits or agricultural products.

Viruses from the Henipavirus genus are primarily spread via fruits or water contaminated with bat urine. In humans and animals, they can cause severe neurological and acute diseases.

Warning conclusion from specialists

Scientists emphasize that, to prevent such threats, to assess epidemiological risks, and to prevent the spread of zoonotic diseases, it is necessary to fully study animal organs. In the future, such scientific research may play a decisive role in preventing global pandemics.

From the Zamin.uz editorial board:
We continue to monitor modern scientific discoveries and serious threats to human health. A health threat is not only a medical issue but also a public responsibility. Stay tuned for new developments and be careful!

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