Experts who predicted covid say new virus appearing in US could threaten ‘all of mankind’

Public health experts are closely monitoring a newly identified virus in the United States, which has raised concerns due to its connection to highly lethal viruses found in other parts of the world. While there is no immediate evidence that this virus poses a direct threat to humans, scientists emphasize the importance of continued research and surveillance.

Discovery of the Camp Hill Virus

A newly identified henipavirus, provisionally named the “Camp Hill virus,” has been detected in shrews in Alabama. This discovery marks the first time a henipavirus has been found in the U.S., raising questions about its potential impact on wildlife and human health. Henipaviruses are a group of viruses that include the Nipah and Hendra viruses, both of which are known to have high fatality rates in humans.

Researchers discovered the virus while studying frozen organ samples from shrews collected in 2021. Although its full implications are still being studied, the finding suggests that similar viruses may be more widespread than previously understood.

The Camp Hill virus was first spotted within the organs of shrews (DeAgostini/Getty Images)

Potential Risks and Expert Insights

Henipaviruses, in general, have been associated with severe illnesses in humans, with reported mortality rates of up to 70% in some cases. Symptoms of infections from related viruses include fever, muscle pain, respiratory distress, seizures, and encephalitis. However, scientists stress that there is currently no evidence that the Camp Hill virus can infect humans.

Rhys Parry, the lead author of the study that identified the virus, noted that while it is crucial to monitor such discoveries, there is no indication that this particular virus has made the jump to humans. “The likelihood of human infection remains unknown but is likely low,” Parry told Live Science.

Precautionary Public Health Approach

Despite the low immediate risk, some public health experts caution against complacency. Dr. David Dyjack from the National Environmental Health Association expressed concerns about the potential for viral mutations. “What concerns us in public health is that we have this virus with a very high mortality rate in its related strains. If it were to mutate and become capable of human-to-human transmission, it could present a significant challenge,” Dyjack stated.

He further emphasized that the possibility of airborne transmission, while currently hypothetical, warrants continued vigilance and preparedness from the public health sector.

Conclusion

At this stage, the Camp Hill virus remains a subject of scientific study rather than an immediate public health threat. Experts are advocating for increased research to better understand its characteristics and potential risks. While caution is always advisable, there is no cause for alarm, and public health agencies continue to monitor developments closely.

As new information emerges, researchers and health officials will assess any necessary steps to ensure public safety, reinforcing the importance of proactive science and preparedness in mitigating potential health risks.

Featured Image Credit: Justin Paget / Getty