In News:

A newly discovered bat coronavirus named HKU5-CoV-2 has been identified in China by a research team led by Shi Zhengli (Wuhan Institute of Virology), known for her work on bat coronaviruses.

About HKU5-CoV-2

• Type: Bat coronavirus
• Subgenus: Merbecovirus
  • This group includes MERS-CoV (Middle East Respiratory Syndrome virus).
• Similarity: Shares traits with SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19 virus).
• Discovery Location: China

Virological Features

• ACE2 Receptor Binding:
  • HKU5-CoV-2 can bind to the human ACE2 receptor, the same one used by SARS-CoV-2 for cell entry.
  • Binding Affinity: Lower than SARS-CoV-2, indicating weaker infectivity in current form.
• Intermediate Hosts:Can bind to ACE2 receptors in multiple mammalian species → possible spread through intermediate animals (like SARS-CoV and MERS-CoV).
• Laboratory Studies:The virus could infect lab-grown human lung and gut tissues, suggesting potential zoonotic transmission.
• Pandemic Potential:
  • No immediate threat of a pandemic.
  • Requires ongoing surveillance for possible mutations enhancing transmission.

Transmission Pathways

• Direct Transmission:From bats to humans through contact with bodily fluids (saliva, urine, feces).
• Zoonotic Transmission via Intermediate Host:Could jump species before infecting humans, similar to MERS and SARS-CoV.

Symptoms (Speculative)

• No confirmed human cases so far.
• Possible respiratory symptoms (based on similarity to MERS and COVID-19):
  • Fever
  • Cough
  • Shortness of breath
  • Sore throat
  • Fatigue
  • Body aches