Researchers have discovered a virus that could enter human cells in a similar way to COVID-19. But they caution it's much more poorly adapted to humans.

Chinese scientists have discovered a new coronavirus in bats called HKU5-CoV-2. It shares similarities with SARS-CoV-2 and can infect human cells. Researchers are investigating its potential to spill over to humans.

The extensive research on coronavirus led to the discovery of HKU5-CoV-2, which can be transmitted to humans since it has the same human receptor. The virus was discovered by a team of virologists led by Shi Zhengil, Wuhan Institute of Virology, referred to as 'Batwoman'.

Experts note that HKU5-CoV-2 has a lower binding affinity to human ACE2 than SARS-CoV-2, and its ability to infect humans on a large scale remains uncertain. More research is needed to determine if it poses a serious health threat.

After Covid-19 and HMPV, a new bat coronavirus discovered in China has sparked concerns among health officials and has triggered another pandemic fear. The newly discovered virus, however, is yet to be detected in humans.

The virus has a special feature, called a furin cleavage site, that helps it enter cells through the ACE2 receptor protein just like the Covid-19 virus.

HKU5-CoV-2 is classified within the merbecovirus subgenus, which includes the MERS virus. Initially detected in the Japanese pipistrelle bat in Hong Kong, it has shown the ability to bind to human angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptors, akin to SARS-CoV-2.

Known as HKU5-CoV-2, the virus also appears capable of hooking onto other versions of ACE2 in multiple different mammals, suggesting it may be capable of jumping to other species. The detection of similar strains in farmed minks underscores this risk, indicating that the virus may already be spreading through different animal populations.

Researchers at the Wuhan Institute of Virology have discovered a new coronavirus in bats named HKU5-CoV-2, which closely resembles the Covid-19 strain