Dear Editor,

We are writing to express our deep concern regarding the recent identification of an emerging viral threat, particularly the bat coronavirus discovered in China. The question “Are we prepared for another pandemic?” undoubtedly echoes in everyone’s mind whenever news of a new viral outbreak emerges. Although the outbreak of new viral strains occurs in distant parts of the world, they quickly become matters of global concern. Today, no disease is limited by national boundaries, thanks to international travel. We must view the world as one unified population when it comes to combating viruses.

The newly discovered bat coronavirus in China is truly disturbing. This virus has the potential to infect human cells via the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE2) receptor.1 The question “Is this really an emerging viral threat?” is one that the medical community must seriously consider. Is this truly alarming, or merely the discovery of another virus with no cause for fear?

Named as HKU5-CoV-2, its discovery has raised pandemic concerns in China.2 Although some strains of coronavirus have been present in bats for many years,3 the similarity of HKU5-CoV-2 with SARS-CoV-2 has raised serious questions. It targets the same human receptor as SARS-CoV-2, ACE2, and could potentially enable human to human or even cross-species transmission, as researchers have warned.1,2

The COVID-19 pandemic left an indelible mark on humanity, with its catastrophic consequences: overburdened healthcare systems, economic disruptions, prolonged lockdowns, and the loss of millions of lives.4 The emergence of yet another coronavirus should serve as a wake-up call to the world. With the ability to infect humans, it is a stark reminder that the zoonotic disease can spill over into human populations.5

To avoid such threats, we need a coordinated international response from scientists, public health officials, and policymakers. This will strengthen global preparedness and response strategies in the event of pandemic. Key measures should include enhanced surveillance and early detection, regulation of wildlife trade, and investment in universal vaccines and antiviral therapies.

History tells us that pandemics aren’t a question of “if” but “when”. Only time will tell whether this new virus poses a significant threat to humankind. But by taking smart, proactive steps now, we can reduce the risk of another global crisis and better protect public health.

references

1. Chen J, Zhang W, Li Y, Liu C, Dong T, Chen H, et al. Bat-infecting merbecovirus HKU5-CoV lineage 2 can use human ACE2 as a cell entry receptor. Cell 2025 Feb 12:S0092-8674(25)00144-8.
2. 2. What is HKU5-CoV-2, the new bat coronavirus in China that could trigger another Covid-19 pandemic? All details. [cited 2025 March 7]. Available from: https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/international/global-trends/new-virus-in-china-hku5-cov-2-what-is-hku5-cov-2-the-new-bat-coronavirus-in-china-that-could-trigger-another-covid-19-pandemic/articleshow/118470495.cms?from=mdr.
3. 3. Woo PC, Lau SK, Li KS, Poon RW, Wong BH, Tsoi HW, et al. Molecular diversity of coronaviruses in bats. Virology 2006 Jul;351(1):180-187.
4. 4. Bernstein L. What was the impact of COVID-19? [cited 2025 March 7]. Available from: https://www.britannica.com/topic/What-was-the-impact-of-COVID-19.
5. 5. Ellwanger JH, Chies JA. Zoonotic spillover: Understanding basic aspects for better prevention. Genet Mol Biol 2021 Jun;44(1)(Suppl 1):e20200355.