Scientists in China have discovered two new henipaviruses in bats from Yunnan province. The viruses are genetically similar to the deadly Nipah and Hendra viruses. Found in bat kidneys, they may spread to humans via contaminated fruit or water. The discovery highlights the ongoing risk of zoonotic diseases and the importance of global health surveillance.

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• Two new bat viruses found in Yunnan, China, similar to deadly Nipah and Hendra.
• Discovered in bat kidneys—linked to urine-based transmission risk.
• Viruses may spread via contaminated fruits or water near bat habitats.
• Could cause brain inflammation (encephalitis) and severe respiratory illness in humans.
• Study analyzed 142 bats from 2017 to 2021 using genetic sequencing.
• 22 viruses found, two named Yunnan bat henipavirus 1 & 2.
• First complete genomes of such viruses found in Chinese bats.
• Experts warn of future outbreaks through zoonotic spillover.
• Raises post-COVID urgency for global disease monitoring.
• Stresses public health readiness and bat-human environment oversight.