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New Coronavirus Found in Thai Bats May Be Able to Infect People
Researchers led by a University of Tokyo virologist identified a new coronavirus in bats in Thailand. The study found the virus may have the ability to infect humans. The discovery was reported on May 10, 2026.
May 10, 2:38 AM·1m read1 source
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A new coronavirus discovered in bats in Thailand may be capable of infecting people, according to a scientific study. The research team was led by a University of Tokyo virologist. The team found the virus while conducting field studies on bats in Thailand.
The findings were reported Saturday by @FirstSquawk. Scientists determined through laboratory testing that the virus has properties allowing it to bind to human cells. This marks the latest instance of a bat coronavirus showing potential to cross into human hosts.
Bats are known carriers of multiple coronaviruses, some of which have caused outbreaks in humans in the past.
The study focused on bat populations in Thailand where the new virus was isolated. Laboratory analysis examined the virus's spike protein and its interaction with receptors on human cells. The results indicated the virus could potentially enter and replicate within human cells.
No human infections have been reported from this specific virus. Health authorities in Thailand and international organizations have not issued any immediate public alerts. Further research is expected to assess the level of risk the virus may pose.
Bats host a wide variety of coronaviruses globally.
Several strains have previously spilled over into other species and eventually humans. The identification of this new variant adds to ongoing scientific efforts to monitor viruses in wildlife that could present future health risks.
