US EditionScientists Discover 20 New Bat Viruses in Yunnan, Including Hendra and Nipah Relatives
YUNNAN PROVINCE, CHINA, JUN 24 – Researchers found 20 new viruses in bats, including two henipaviruses with up to 57% genetic similarity to deadly Nipah and Hendra viruses, highlighting zoonotic spillover risks.
- Researchers collaborating from institutions in China and Sydney identified 20 novel viruses, including two henipaviruses similar to Nipah and Hendra, in the kidneys of 142 fruit bats collected in Yunnan province over a four-year period.
- This discovery follows concerns about zoonotic spillover, as Nipah and Hendra viruses cause deadly brain inflammation and respiratory illness, and protecting bat habitats is seen as a key strategy to reduce disease risk.
- The study, published on June 25 in PLOS Pathogens, emphasizes the need for intensified surveillance, biosecurity, and more lab research to assess the actual risk posed by these novel viruses near human settlements.
- Tim Mahony emphasized the importance of careful monitoring without undue alarm at this stage, while other specialists pointed out the political sensitivity and worldwide significance of addressing henipavirus risks.
- The findings imply urgent attention to zoonotic threats and recommend integrated health approaches that balance human, animal, and ecosystem health to mitigate the emergence of future viral outbreaks.
34 Articles
34 Articles
Scientists Find New Bat Viruses in China, Linked to Deadly Hendra and Nipah Viruses
Researchers from China and Australia have found 20 novel viruses in bats from southwest China, including two henipaviruses that are related to the deadly Hendra and Nipah viruses, according to a study published on Tuesday. The 22 viruses—including 20 novel viruses—were found after researchers examined the kidneys of 142 bats collected between 2017 and 2021 from five cities or counties in China’s southwestern Yunnan Province. Researchers also fou…
20 new deadly viruses found in Chinese bats near humans — Scientists warn of possible outbreak
New Virus outbreak 2025: Scientists have found 20 new viruses in bats from China’s Yunnan province, including two linked to deadly Nipah and Hendra viruses, raising concerns about future disease outbreaks from wildlife to humans.
The viruses were detected in rats living near villages in southwestern China. Henipavirus is known for its high mortality rates in humans.
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