New Delhi, Sep 25, 2023 – Shi Zhengli, renowned as “Batwoman” for her extensive research on viruses transmitted from animals, particularly bats, to humans, has issued a warning about the potential for future coronavirus outbreaks. In a research paper, Shi emphasized the need for global readiness in the face of diseases similar to Covid-19.
Shi and her team from the Wuhan Institute of Virology conducted an evaluation of the human spillover risk associated with 40 different coronavirus species. Shockingly, they categorized half of them as “highly risky” in terms of their potential to infect humans.
The evaluation was based on an analysis of several viral characteristics, including population, genetic diversity, host species, and any previous instances of zoonotic diseases, which are diseases that jump from animals to humans.
Out of the 40 coronavirus species studied, six are already known to have caused diseases in humans. The research findings suggest a strong likelihood of future disease emergence, with the possibility of another coronavirus disease outbreak.
While the study was published in the English-language journal Emerging Microbes & Infections back in July, it gained significant attention on Chinese social media only recently. This delay in recognition may be attributed to the paper not being available in Chinese. However, it could also reflect China’s shift away from its strict “zero-Covid” policies.
In private conversations, some public health scholars have noticed that Chinese authorities may be downplaying Covid-19 and withholding infection data, indicating a desire to move past the pandemic.
The Wuhan Institute of Virology research team has also identified rapid and sensitive testing tools that could be utilized for active monitoring of high-risk viruses. Additionally, they have identified potential hosts of the pathogen, including natural hosts like bats and rodents, as well as possible intermediate hosts such as camels, civets, pigs, and pangolins.
Shi Zhengli’s warning serves as a crucial reminder of the ongoing need for global vigilance and preparedness in the face of potential future health threats.