Scientists discover new Coronavirus strain in Brazilian Bat — no human infections reported
This marks the first discovery of a non–SARS-CoV-2 beta coronavirus in South American bats—a development that expands scientific understanding of the diversity and evolution of coronaviruses in wildlife.
A team of scientists from the United States and Japan has discovered a new coronavirus in Brazil that shares striking similarities with the virus responsible for the global COVID-19 pandemic. The finding has sparked renewed concerns about the potential emergence of future zoonotic diseases.
The newly identified virus, named BRZ batCoV, was found in a Pteronotus parnellii bat captured in northern Brazil. Genetic analysis revealed that it belongs to the beta-coronavirus group, the same family that includes SARS-CoV-2, SARS, and MERS viruses.
According to Al Arabiya.net, the researchers discovered that BRZ batCoV possesses a furin cleavage site—a key feature that allows viruses to enter and infect human cells. Notably, the virus differs from SARS-CoV-2 by only a single amino acid. Despite this genetic proximity, scientists emphasized that no human infections have been recorded so far.
The study, published as a preprint on the open-access research platform bioRxiv, underscores the potential risks of viral spillover from animals to humans. “This discovery highlights the role of bats as potential reservoirs for viruses related to zoonotic emergence,” the researchers wrote.
The Pteronotus parnellii bat species, found throughout South America, may host similar viruses, though researchers note that more extensive sampling is needed to determine the extent of infection among other bat populations.
Experts warn that the presence of a furin cleavage site in this new virus is particularly noteworthy, as it plays a critical role in viral infectivity and transmission potential. “Given the importance of the furin cleavage site, these results provide important insights into the evolutionary potential and animal risks of BRZ batCoV,” the researchers added.
This marks the first discovery of a non–SARS-CoV-2 beta coronavirus in South American bats—a development that expands scientific understanding of the diversity and evolution of coronaviruses in wildlife.
While there is no immediate threat to humans, health experts stress the need for continued surveillance and research to monitor potential mutations that could increase the risk of cross-species transmission.
The finding serves as a reminder of the complex relationship between humans and wildlife, particularly in regions where environmental changes and deforestation increase the likelihood of contact between species.
Global health authorities continue to emphasize early detection and preventive monitoring as crucial tools to prevent another pandemic. The discovery of BRZ batCoV reinforces the importance of international scientific collaboration in identifying and tracking emerging infectious diseases before they pose a public health risk.
