Chinese Researchers Discover Virus With COVID-19-Like Traits
Chinese scientists have identified a new bat coronavirus, HKU5-CoV-2, that can enter human cells similarly to COVID-19. The discovery has sparked debate on its potential risk to humans.
Researchers from the Wuhan Institute of Virology reported that the virus binds to human ACE2 receptors, just like SARS-CoV-2. However, they noted that HKU5-CoV-2 does not infect human cells as efficiently as COVID-19.
Figure 1: Researchers from the Wuhan Institute of Virology reported Researchers from the Wuhan Institute of Virology reported [Kyodo via AP Images]
Virus Shares Features With COVID-19
The study, published in Cell, highlighted key characteristics of HKU5-CoV-2:
- It belongs to the merbecovirus subgenus, which includes the Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS) virus.
- It contains a furin cleavage site, enabling cell entry via the ACE2 receptor.
- It infected human cell cultures in laboratory tests, including respiratory and intestinal models.
Researchers tested antiviral drugs and monoclonal antibodies against the virus and found potential treatment options.
Expert Calls Pandemic Concerns “Overblown”
Some scientists have raised concerns about whether HKU5-CoV-2 could cause another pandemic. However, infectious disease expert Dr Michael Osterholm dismissed such fears.
He said populations now have higher immunity against SARS-like viruses than in 2019, which may reduce the risk of human transmission.
The study also noted that HKU5-CoV-2 binds to human ACE2 receptors less effectively than SARS-CoV-2. Researchers concluded that the likelihood of human outbreaks should not be exaggerated.
Wuhan Institute’s Role in Virus Research
The Wuhan Institute of Virology has been at the centre of debates over COVID-19’s origins. One theory suggests that the pandemic started due to a lab leak. Chinese scientists have denied these claims, stating they never worked on viruses that could have triggered the outbreak.
Amid ongoing controversy, the US government halted funding to the Wuhan lab in 2023. The lab had previously received grants through the US-based EcoHealth Alliance.
Rising COVID-19 Cases in Australia
Meanwhile, Australia is seeing a surge in COVID-19 cases. Queensland Health reported a significant increase in hospitalisations this December.
- The number of COVID-19 patients in hospitals jumped by 128% in the first half of the month.
- An average of 258 patients were hospitalised daily between 9 and 15 December, compared to 113 two weeks earlier.
- Most patients are over 65 years old and not up to date with vaccinations.
Queensland Chief Health Officer Dr Heidi Carroll expressed concern over the rise in hospital admissions. She urged elderly residents to stay updated on vaccinations.
COVID-19 Waves Now Follow a Predictable Pattern
Professor Catherine Bennett from Deakin University explained that COVID-19 waves now occur twice a year in Australia.
- The virus peaks in winter and again at year-end, coinciding with holiday gatherings.
- The current wave is linked to the XEC variant, which has become dominant.
Federal health data no longer tracks hospitalisations by state, as some regions have stopped reporting figures. However, experts warn that new variants may continue to challenge immunity levels.
What’s Next?
The discovery of HKU5-CoV-2 underscores the ongoing need for virus surveillance. While experts say the risk of another pandemic is low, monitoring emerging viruses remains crucial.
At the same time, Australia’s rising COVID-19 cases highlight the importance of vaccinations, particularly for older populations. Experts continue to stress the need for caution as new variants emerge.
