A newly emerging virus in parts of the U.S. has experts, who previously predicted the rise of COVID-19, sounding the alarm, warning that it could pose a serious threat to humanity.
This virus is closely related to another with a staggering 70% mortality rate in humans, raising concerns among scientists.
After the devastation caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the last thing the world wants is another outbreak. However, the detection of this virus in the U.S. has some researchers worried about its potential impact.
Earlier this year, similar fears arose over the rise in HMPV cases, as the virus, though not new, saw an increase in infections with symptoms resembling COVID-19.
Now, a close relative of the highly lethal Nipah and Hendra viruses has been discovered in shrews in Alabama, sparking further concern due to its deadly nature when transmitted to humans.
The virus has a reported death rate of around 70%, with initial symptoms including fever, muscle pain, and vomiting. In more severe cases, it can lead to extreme complications such as respiratory distress, seizures, and acute encephalitis.
Named the “Camp Hill virus,” this newly identified pathogen was discovered after scientists studied the frozen organs of shrews captured in 2021. It marks a significant breakthrough, as it is the first henipavirus ever detected in the U.S., raising concerns that similar viruses could be more widespread than previously believed.
While there is potential for the virus to spread to humans through direct contact with infected animals, Rhys Parry, the lead author of the study that identified the Camp Hill virus, cautions against panic.
“There is no evidence to suggest that the provisionally named Camp Hill virus has infected humans, and the likelihood of it doing so remains unknown but is likely low,” Parry told Live Science.
According to SurreyLive, leading experts in the field have still expressed concerns despite the low likelihood of human infection. Dr. David Dyjack, a specialist from the National Environmental Health Association, warned about the virus’s potential risks:
“What concerns us in public health is that we have this virus with a very high mortality rate, and if it were to mutate and transmit to a human, and attack the kidneys, as we’ve seen in some animals, that could be particularly threatening to all of mankind.”
Dr. Dyjack further emphasized the dangers of airborne transmission, stating, “For something like this, if it’s airborne, that causes me great distress as a public health professional.”
While the Camp Hill virus may never pose the same threat as COVID-19, public health officials are taking a cautious approach, aiming to stay ahead of any potential risks before they escalate.
