New Henipavirus Found in Alabama Shrews Raises Pandemic Fears

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The Camp Hill virus, a henipavirus closely related to Nipah, has been discovered in shrews in Alabama, USA, sparking concerns about potential transmission to humans. Researchers at the University of Queensland confirmed the virus's presence in northern short-tailed shrews, marking its first identification in North America. According to Dr. Rhys Parry, this finding suggests that henipaviruses may be more widespread globally than previously believed.

Henipaviruses, which include Nipah and Hendra, have been associated with severe respiratory and neurological diseases in both humans and animals. Dr. Parry highlighted the serious implications, citing that Nipah virus outbreaks have recorded fatality rates between 40% and 75% in Southeast Asia, while the Hendra virus has a fatality rate of up to 70%.

The discovery raises the possibility of shrew-to-human transmission. Dr. Parry referenced the Langya virus, which crossed from shrews to humans in China, emphasizing the need for further research to evaluate the Camp Hill virus's risk to human health.

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