Chinese Scientists Discover New Deadly Viruses in Bats

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Scientists at the Yunnan Institute have identified two new viruses in bats that are closely related to the deadly Nipah and Hendra viruses. These pathogens can cause severe neurological and respiratory diseases in humans, writes PLOS Pathogens.

The article says that a study of the kidneys of 142 bats found 22 viruses, including 20 previously unknown. Of particular concern are two viruses from the Henipavirus genus, found in frugivores living near human settlements.

Viruses can be transmitted through contaminated fruit. In addition, scientists have found a new species of protozoa and two new bacteria.

The work is the first to describe the complete genomes of these viruses in China, highlighting the need to monitor zoonotic threats in areas where animals and people interact, the scientists noted.