Archive · 6 Jun 2025
Scientists Warn of Bat Virus Mutation Threat to Humans
Scientists are studying bat viruses called HKU5 that are similar to MERS-CoV, which is deadly.
The HKU5 viruses could potentially infect humans with just a small change.
They use a protein to attach to cells, like COVID-19.
While these viruses haven't infected humans yet, they have infected minks.
Researchers used AI to understand the virus behavior.
Scientists are closely monitoring these viruses because they could cause problems in the future.
There is no need to panic, but preparedness is essential.
Scientists warn HKU5 bat viruses could be a potential threat to humans.
The study, published in Nature Communications, focuses on HKU5 merbecoviruses.
HKU5 viruses can bind to the ACE2 receptor, the same one used by COVID-19, but only in bats currently.
These viruses have been found infecting minks, indicating the potential to cross species.
AI was used to model how HKU5 spike proteins interact with ACE2 receptors.
- Who
- Scientists from Washington State University, Caltech, and the University of North Carolina.
- What
- A study warning that HKU5 bat viruses could be one mutation away from infecting humans.
- When
- The study was published on June 6, 2025.
- Where
- China, Asia, Europe, and the Middle East (where HKU5 viruses have been found).
- Why
- To assess the potential of HKU5 bat viruses to infect humans and highlight the need for vigilance.
- Virus Type
- HKU5 merbecoviruses
- Origin
- Bats
- Mink Infections
- China
- Virus Attachment Method
- ACE2 receptors
- MERS-CoV Mortality Rate
- 34%
