Researchers have found a new coronavirus originated from bats in the UK. hey Study, operated by the University of East Anglia and Public Health England, and published in the scientific journal nature, Explains that despite the similarity to the virus that causes Kovid-19, there is no evidence that it can be transmitted to humans so far.
Named RhGB01, it is the first coronavirus discovered in the UK. According to the study, it may have been circulating among hammerhead bats for years, but it was only recently identified, as this type of research had never been done in this area.
Although it still does not pose a risk to humans, the virus can mutate over time and thus infect people, the researchers explain.
According to the study, if a person comes in contact with bats infected with a new virus or its droppings with Covid-19, mutation can occur. For this reason, it is highly recommended to use protective equipment in case of contact with infected bats.
Hammer bats, which carry the virus, are not commonly found in South America, according to research, being more common in countries in Asia, Europe, Africa and Oceania.
The new virus is found in the group of sarvecoviruses, a subgenus that includes SARS-CoV-2, which is responsible for the current pandemic, and SARS-CoV, responsible for the SARS outbreak in 2003.
The study was carried out with 53 bats, captured for collection of their excrement and released shortly after the procedure, the researchers highlight.
*K interns R7 Under the supervision of Deborah Giannini
