Researchers in China have identified twenty new bat viruses, including two that are closely related to the dangerous Nipah and Hendra viruses. This discovery emerged from a study conducted over four years, which involved examining the kidneys of 142 bats from ten different species in five locations within Yunnan province.
Using advanced genetic sequencing techniques, the researchers detected a total of 22 viruses, with 20 of them being previously unrecorded. Among these, two new henipaviruses were particularly alarming due to their affiliation with Nipah and Hendra viruses, which pose significant health risks to humans.
These henipaviruses were found in fruit bats residing near orchards that are close to human populations. This raises concerns about the potential for contamination of fruit by bat urine, which could increase the risk of transmission to humans or livestock.
Dr Alison Peel, a wildlife disease ecologist and veterinarian from the University of Sydney, expressed concern regarding the findings but noted that it remains uncertain whether these newly discovered viruses can infect humans. She highlighted the need for further laboratory studies to evaluate the actual risk posed by these viruses, as there are instances of similar viruses not resulting in spillover events.
Dr Peel also pointed out that the connection between virus-carrying bats and agricultural areas in China serves as a critical lesson for Australia. Past research on Hendra virus spillover in Australia has shown that habitat destruction and loss of natural food sources among bats can significantly raise the risk of viral transmission.
Moreover, Associate Professor Vinod Balasubramaniam from Monash University cautioned about the potential for these new viruses to spread from China to Australia. He noted the similarities between the rural environments in Australia and the orchards in Yunnan, making it imperative to enhance surveillance and biosecurity measures in Australia.
Professor Balasubramaniam underscored the urgency of robust local monitoring strategies, particularly focusing on bat kidneys since this study has unearthed vital evidence regarding their role in virus hosting. Given the interconnectedness of the world, an outbreak originating in China could quickly reach Australian shores, highlighting the necessity for vigilant and proactive measures to ensure public health safety.