Chinese scientists have discovered 8 new viruses dangerous to humanity (3 photos)

Researchers intend to conduct laboratory experiments with them. Maybe it's not worth it?





On the tropical island of Hainan, Chinese scientists have found eight previously unknown viruses that are potentially dangerous to humans. As noted, Chinese virologists went to the island to protect the world from new epidemics. But from the point of view of the average person, everything looks exactly the opposite.

Rodents turned out to be carriers of previously unknown pathogens, and one of the viruses found belongs to the notorious COVID family. The Chinese noted that pathogen-carrying rodents pose a colossal threat, since rats are widespread almost throughout the planet, are diverse in species, reproduce extremely quickly and live in close proximity to people.



The island where new types of viruses were discovered is highlighted in red.

Analysis of new pathogens has revealed a dozen new diseases. Some of the viruses can cause yellow fever, intestinal infections and influenza. Chinese virologists will continue to work with new viruses in the laboratory - research was sponsored by the Chinese government.

And although, as scientists note, viruses were found in rodents, there is a high probability that they can infect people. To do this, they need to overcome the species barrier.