New Bat Virus Discovered in Humans, Linked to Raw Date Palm Sap
Researchers have found a hidden threat. A bat virus is infecting people in Bangladesh. This virus is called Pteropine orthoreovirus (PRV). Scientists found it in five patients. These people were very sick with fever and neurological issues. Doctors first suspected the deadly Nipah virus. However, tests ruled Nipah out.
A Common, Risky Habit
All patients shared one key detail. They had recently consumed raw date palm sap. Bats frequently visit and contaminate this sweet sap. Therefore, drinking it raw is a known health risk. It is a major pathway for Nipah virus. Now, we know it carries other dangers too. “Our findings show the risk extends beyond Nipah,” said senior author Dr. Nischay Mishra. “Broad surveillance is crucial to find emerging bat viruses.”
How Scientists Found the Hidden Virus
Advanced technology made this discovery possible. Researchers used a method called Viral Capture Sequencing (VCS). This powerful tool screens for thousands of viruses at once. It found PRV genetic material in stored patient samples. In three cases, they even grew the live virus in a lab. This confirmed an active human infection.
This virus likely circulates more widely than we knew. Previous cases in nearby countries were milder. Consequently, many infections may go undiagnosed. This finding proves other dangerous bat viruses are spilling over. They are circulating alongside known threats like Nipah.Researchers also traced the virus source. They found a genetically similar virus in local bats. This provides a clear link from bat reservoirs to human illness.
A Call for Better Surveillance
This event underscores a critical need. We must monitor illnesses that look like Nipah more broadly. New technologies can help find unexpected viruses. Staying vigilant is our best defense against the next potential outbreak.
