Researchers from Brazil have made headlines by discovering a new coronavirus variant closely related to the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) virus, marking the first time such a virus has been documented in South America. The groundbreaking study, published on February 18, 2023, in the Journal of Medical Virology, arose from the collaborative efforts of scientists from the Brazilian states of São Paulo and Ceará alongside the University of Hong Kong.
During the research, scientists analyzed samples from five bats collected at the Central Health Laboratory of Ceará (Lacen) in Fortaleza. The team identified seven coronaviruses, which were found to belong to two different species of bats: Molossus molossus, the insect-eater, and Artibeus lituratus, which consumes fruit, vegetables, and legumes.
Despite the alarming similarities between the newly discovered coronavirus and MERS, researchers caution against immediate fears of human infection. Bruna Stefanie Silvério, the study's first author, stated, "We still cannot say whether it has the capacity to infect humans. We found parts of the spike protein of the virus...suggesting potential interaction with the receptor used by MERS-CoV." This indicates the possibility of the virus interacting with mammalian cells, but definitive results are yet to be determined.
Silvério emphasized the need for laboratory experiments slated to take place later this year at the University of Hong Kong to explore the transmission potential of this novel virus. The researchers are aware of the considerable global concern surrounding coronaviruses since COVID-19; nevertheless, they assure the public consistency and scientific vigilance.
More historically, MERS was first identified in Saudi Arabia back in 2012. Since its emergence, it has resulted in over 800 deaths across 27 countries, yet it has never been known to cause pandemic-level outbreaks. Formerly, its transmission remains relatively low, categorizing it as low risk for the global population.
While the new variant holds notable genetic similarities—showing 71.9% resemblance to the MERS-CoV genome and 71.74% identity with its spike protein—the team emphasizes the necessity of continuous monitoring and investigation of coronaviruses maintained within bat reservoirs. Ricardo Durães-Carvalho, professor at EPM-Unifesp and the research coordinator, stated, "Bats are important reservoirs of viruses, and continuous epidemiological surveillance is necessary for identifying circulating viruses and anticipating potential transmission risks to humans and other animals."
The project, titled "Bats: Epidemiological Surveillance, High-Resolution Phylodynamics, and the Search and Design of Peptides of Biotechnological Interest in Emerging and Re-emerging Viruses," is funded by the São Paulo Research Foundation (FAPESP). This initiative highlights the urgency of tracking viral spread among wildlife to help reduce the risks linked to animal-to-human transmission.
To date, the Brazilian team's findings serve as a clear reminder of the potential dangers posed by coronaviruses thriving within wildlife populations. The importance of fundamental research cannot be overstated, especially as it lays the groundwork for future health policies aimed at preventing the crossing of pathogens from animal hosts to humans.
Indeed, as the world witnesses the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, there exists increasing awareness of zoonotic diseases—those capable of jumping from animals to humans—and vigilance is necessary. The necessity of scientific vigilance was well articulated by Durães-Carvalho, who noted, "Our studies demonstrate the importance of systematic analyses to monitor and even anticipate new epidemics and pandemics."
With the rapid evolution of viruses, experts suggest this discovery does not signal the onset of panic but reinforces the need for public health measures and preparedness strategies. The constant evolution and diversity of coronaviruses found within bats signify the importance of continuing research and outlined monitoring practices to mitigate potential public health threats.