Scientists from the Chinese Academy of Sciences and Shandong University have discovered 24 new types of coronavirus in bats.They conducted a study to determine the evolution of the virus.
The scientists collected saliva and waste samples from 342 bats. Various genomes of the coronavirus have been found in these materials. The other four genomes have a similar structure to SARS-CoV-2.
The virus related to it is still spreading in bat populations, the researchers noted. These bats may carry diseases that are harmful to humans.
In addition, scientists say the coronavirus can be transmitted between livestock and pets. So, it can be caught by cats, dogs, hedgehogs and cows.
Let us note that the source of the coronavirus infection has not been determined yet.
Earlier «NIA-China» informed that China has introduced more than 800 million doses of COVID-19 vaccines.
