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Scientists have discovered a new type of virus, similar to the strain responsible for Covid-19, in cave bat droppings in Japan.This was reported by Japanese television, which released data from a group of researchers from the University of Tokyo.
Researchers discovered the pathogen in the droppings of small horseshoe bats in the Japanese wilderness seven years ago. A new investigation has found that it is surprisingly similar to SARS-CoV-2 – the strain of Covid-19.
The genetic makeup of the new virus is 81.5% compatible with SARS-CoV-2 and experts say this is the first time that a pathogen similar to the one responsible for the current pandemic has been discovered in Japan.
Viruses that are transmitted from animals to humans are responsible for various diseases, including Covid-19, SARS, MERS, and some versions of the common cold. Fortunately, scientists say the new virus does not infect humans, although further investigation is needed.
“It is believed that only a small number of coronaviruses are dangerous, but it is undeniable that there are species that infect humans in Japan,” Associate Professor Shin Murakami explained. “We will investigate the wild animals and quickly investigate the real situation. We have to find out. “
This is not the first time that a coronavirus similar to SARS-CoV-2 has been discovered. According to official statistics, Chinese disease hunting scientists have found coronaviruses that match 95% of the strain that has caused more than 1.2 million deaths worldwide.
As we reported earlier, the World Health Organization (WHO) has called on world leaders to prepare for the next pandemic.
“We must prepare for the next pandemic now”, The WHO said in a press release.
“We saw last year that countries with a strong infrastructure for health emergency preparedness were able to act quickly to contain and control the spread of the SARS-CoV-2 virus.”
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