Wasapada! Symptoms of HKU5 infection, new Chinese virus that plague

The new virus named HKU5-Cov-2 has been found in bats in China, which triggered concerns among scientists around the world. Although there is currently no evidence that this virus can infect humans, its genetic similarities with other Corona viruses, such as Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) and Covid-19, show that HKU5 can be a serious threat in the future. This is a serious spotlight given the world experience with Pandemi Covid-19 who has claimed many lives.

Recent studies from researchers at Washington State University, California Institute of Technology, and the University of North Carolina show that the HKU5 virus has dangerous abilities. This virus uses ACE2, the same receptor used by SARS-COV-2, the cause of COVID-19, to infect cells. This discovery becomes an alarm for researchers that HKU5 can potentially be mutated and adapted, so as to be able to infect humans.

Until now, laboratory tests using pseudovirus showed that HKU5 could not bind human cells. Nevertheless, scientists warn that if this virus moves from bat to other animals, there is a possibility that this virus will experience mutations and develop the ability to be transmitted to humans. Professor Michael Letko from Washington State University stated, “The HKU5 virus is in particular not much studied, but our research shows how this virus infects cells. We also find that the HKU5 virus may only be one step away to be transmitted to humans.”

Although there are no cases of HKU5-COV-2 infection in confirmed humans, experts emphasize that it is important to be aware of the potential symptoms that may arise. This virus is included in the same subgenus as MERS and COVID-19, so that symptoms can be estimated that may appear, among others:

– fever
– Cough
– Hard to breathe
– Sore throat
– Fatigue
– body pain

It is important to note that at this time, there is no data or study that shows that HKU5 can be transmitted between humans. However, the potential for genetic changes that allows transmission cannot be ignored. Scientists remind the global community to remain vigilant and monitor the development of research related to this virus, especially after the bitter experience of Pandemi Covid-19.

The appearance of this new virus is a reminder of the importance of supervision of zoonosis – virus transmission from animals to humans. Public health policies and scientific research must be developed to evaluate the risks of viruses that arise, as well as to increase readiness and response to the potential of Pandemi in the future.

In the future, with a new virus like HKU5, it is very important for the international community to continue to strengthen collaboration in Virology and Epidemiological research. With proper prevention and monitoring measures, it is expected that the potential threats of viruses such as HKU5 can be minimized, and we can learn from the experience of overcoming the Pandemic that has occurred before.