New Delhi. The world is not yet fully overcome with deadly epidemics like Covid-19 and Mers that scientists have issued a serious warning regarding another possible crisis. The latest research conducted by scientists at Washington State University has shown that a new Kornavirus discovered in China-HKU5-Cov-2-Spreading epidemic in humans is just a small mutation (genetic change) away. This virus can cause similar symptoms as covid-19, but its close relationship is from Mers (Middle East Respiratory Syndrome)-which has been one of the deadliest viruses found in humans so far and whose mortality is about 33% (one in three).
What does this new research say?
The HKU5-COV-2 virus was first discovered in bats in a lab in China, the same lab from which Covid-19 was feared leaking. The team of scientists at Washington State University did deep research on the virus and saw how it interacts with human cells.
Professor Michael Letco, the head of research, said:
“The HKU5 virus has previously been studied very little, but our research has shown how this virus can infect human cells. The HKU5 virus is just a small step away from spreading to humans.”
How can this virus spread to humans?
If there are some minor genetic changes in the “spike protein” of the HKU5-Cov-2 virus, then this virus can stick to the Ace2 cells of humans. These Ace2 receptors are found in our nose, mouth and throat-these are the places where viruses like Covid-19 enter. Research also saw that human cells do not react to it until these special mutations were in the virus. But if this virus enters an intermediary animal like a mink or seweet bilao, it can reach humans with necessary mutations.
Confirmation of cryo-electron microscopy
Scientists used a high-resolution technique called cryo-electron microscopy (Cryo-M) to understand the depth of the “spike protein” of the virus. In this process it was observed that the main part of the virus remains in a ‘closed state’, which makes the virus infection difficult – but not impossible. Scientists believe that this structure, if it opens slightly, can be easier for the virus to infection in humans.
Relationship with Mers: Major reason for anxiety
The HKU5-Cov-2 virus is very closely connected to Mers, which has already proved fatal in many countries. The mortality rate of Mers is more than the Covid-19. Professor Letco warned:
“These viruses have such a close relationship with Mers that we should be very careful with them. If they start spreading to humans, the results can be destructive.”
Wuhan also came from the lab
Researchers also mentioned that a research conducted earlier this year in Wuhan, China, revealed that a line of HKU5 virus – Lineage 2 – is already able to join the human Ace2 receptor. This means that Lineage 2 can infect humans without any extra mutation. Now, American scientists have initiated a depth study of the entire Merbecovirus family (including HKU5) to prevent potential epidemics in the future.
Lineage 2 can become next danger
Research has made it clear that Lineage 2 virus can become the most immediate threat as it already has the ability to enter human cells. Additionally, other variants of the HKU5 family are also at a distance of just a few mutations, which can cause epidemic in the future.
Why is this warning serious?
Lesson from Covid-19: The whole world has spent years to recover from Covid-19. Millions of people lost their lives, the economy collapsed, and health systems were broken. Now this warning of scientists indicates another possible destruction.
Less information, more danger: HKU5 virus has had very little research. Because of this, it is difficult to understand when, how and where this virus can spread.
Role of intermediate animals: Animals such as Mink and Civate, which have already become intermediate of viruses such as Sars and Covid-19, can once again become a medium of danger.
What do we do now?
Scientists believe that monitoring and research from the depth of this virus is very important. Governments and global health organizations should:
Strengthen public health monitoring mechanisms on these viruses.
Increase pre-conversion by identifying potential “hotspot” areas.
Make people aware that they do not take the risk of infection from animals lightly.
Caution only rescue
This new virus called HKU5-Cov-2 may not have been able to infect humans on a large scale yet, but it is definitely a danger bell. This virus is just a small change, and the world can again come under the epidemic. Forgetting the lesson from tragedies like Covid-19 and Mers, now our biggest mistake can be. Scientists’ warnings will have to be heard in time, so that we can avoid another global crisis in future.
