Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

New Bat Coronaviruses Could Spark Next Pandemic: Urgent Alert

6/9/2025

43 5

Summary

Story summary

A U.S. study raises alarm over HKU5 bat coronaviruses, which may be just one mutation away from jumping to humans, threatening a new pandemic. Discovered in Pipistrellus abramus bats, these viruses could latch onto the ACE2 receptor like SARS-CoV-2. Experts stress the urgency for increased surveillance to avert potential outbreaks and ensure readiness.

1 of 1

Story summary

A U.S. study raises alarm over HKU5 bat coronaviruses, which may be just one mutation away from jumping to humans, threatening a new pandemic. Discovered in Pipistrellus abramus bats, these viruses could latch onto the ACE2 receptor like SARS-CoV-2. Experts stress the urgency for increased surveillance to avert potential outbreaks and ensure readiness.