Newly Discovered Bat Viruses in China May Pose Potential Risk to Humans

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Scientists in China have identified several previously unknown viruses in bats living near human settlements. Among them are two viruses closely related to Nipah and Hendra, both of which are known to cause brain inflammation and respiratory illnesses.

The findings were published on June 24 in the journal PLOS Pathogens. The researchers stressed the importance of monitoring wildlife, particularly animals like bats that live near humans, to prevent the potential transmission of dangerous pathogens. They also advised avoiding direct contact with such animals.

Bats have long been recognized as natural hosts for a range of viruses that can infect humans. However, most earlier research has focused only on analyzing bat feces, without examining viruses that may be present within the animals' internal organs.

To address this gap, a research team led by Yun Feng from the Yunnan Institute of Endemic Disease Control and Prevention studied the kidneys of 142 bats from 10 different species collected in Yunnan Province.

Through genetic sequencing, the scientists identified 22 viruses, 20 of which were previously unknown. They also discovered a protozoan parasite and two types of bacteria, one of which was new to science.

Edward Holmes, a virologist at the University of Sydney and one of the study’s co-authors, explained the focus on kidneys. He noted that this organ can reveal viruses excreted through urine, which is one potential route of transmission to humans.

“The spread of the Nipah virus to humans first occurred because bats urinated in sap collection containers for date palms,” Holmes said, as quoted in Live Science on Monday, June 30, 2025.

The bats in this study live near fruit orchards that are close to villages, raising concerns about contamination. If infected bats urinate on fruit, pathogens could potentially spread to livestock or humans.

Although the newly discovered viruses are genetically similar to Nipah and Hendra, Holmes emphasized that they have not been detected in humans.

“There is no evidence that they will infect humans,” he said. Still, he cautioned that such viruses cannot be ruled out as potential threats.

Holmes highlighted the growing risks posed by increased interaction between humans and wildlife. He called for better surveillance of animals living near human populations, as well as of people who may have been exposed.

“Pandemics always reflect how humans disrupt the natural environment. Better monitoring is always the key,” he said.

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