A new bat virus, HKU5-CoV2, discovered in China, has raised global concerns. The virus, identified by Chinese virologist Shi Zhengli and her team at the Wuhan Institute of Virology, belongs to the Merbecovirus subgenus of betacoronaviruses, unlike SARS-CoV-2, which belongs to the Sarbecovirus subgenus.

Key differences between HKU5-CoV2 and SARS-CoV-2 include:

• Pathway: Both viruses can bind to the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE2) receptors in human cells.
• Infection Potential: While SARS-CoV-2 spreads rapidly among humans, HKU5-CoV2 has not yet demonstrated human-to-human transmission.
• Genetic Makeup: HKU5-CoV2 shares genetic similarities with the Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS) virus.

According to Dr. Michael Osterholm, an infectious disease expert from the University of Minnesota, existing immunity against SARS-like viruses may reduce the pandemic risk. Researchers continue to investigate HKU5-CoV2’s potential threat, with experts advising against panic.

Breast Cancer Cases to Surge: WHO Warns 1 in 20 Women at High Risk

The World Health Organization (WHO) projects a sharp rise in breast cancer cases, estimating 3.2 million new cases and 1.1 million deaths annually by 2050, if current trends continue.

Key findings from the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) include:

• Global Burden: One in 20 women worldwide will be diagnosed with breast cancer, and one in 70 will die from it.
• Regional Impact: Highest breast cancer incidence rates are found in Australia, New Zealand, North America, and Northern Europe, while the highest mortality rates are in Melanesia, Polynesia, and Western Africa.
• Early Detection: Common symptoms include lumps, changes in breast size, skin dimpling, and nipple alterations.
• Diagnosis & Treatment: Detection methods include self-examination, mammography, ultrasound, MRI, and biopsy. Treatment options range from chemotherapy to radiation therapy, immunotherapy, and surgery.

Dr. Isabelle Soerjomataram, Deputy Head of IARC’s Cancer Surveillance Branch, emphasized the urgent need for high-quality cancer data, particularly in countries with low and middle Human Development Index (HDI).

Mizoram’s HIV Crisis: Over 32,000 Cases, Legislators Commit to Support

Mizoram continues to battle India’s highest HIV prevalence rate at 2.73%, far exceeding the national average of 0.2%, according to Health Minister Lalrinpuii. As of January 2025, 32,287 people in the state have tested positive for HIV, with 5,511 deaths reported.

Key Insights from MSACS Project Director Dr. Jane R. Ralte:

• 67% of new infections resulted from unprotected sex.
• 30.44% stemmed from sharing unsterilized syringes.
• 1,769 new cases were detected between April 2024 and January 2025.

To combat the crisis, Mizoram’s legislators have pledged Rs 50,000 each from their MLA funds for 2024-2025, supporting uninterrupted ART (antiretroviral therapy) access. Health authorities emphasize regular blood testing and drop-in centers for HIV-positive individuals.

Also Read :- Ahmedabad’s Private Healthcare Boom: Rs 3,000 Crore Investment by Adani, Zydus & Others

Shingles Awareness: 56.6% of Indians Aged 50+ Unaware of the Disease

A GSK global survey conducted across nine countries revealed that 56.6% of Indians aged 50 and above are unaware of shingles, despite 90% carrying the varicella-zoster virus.

Key findings:

• Symptoms: Painful rash, burning or stabbing sensations, and potential long-term nerve damage (post-herpetic neuralgia).
• Complications: Increased risk of vision loss, heart attack, and stroke.
• Chronic Conditions: Among Indian participants, 61% reported chronic illnesses such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, COPD, and asthma.

Shalini Menon, Medical Director at GSK India, stressed the need for proactive health management, including vaccination, healthy lifestyle choices, and regular screenings to prevent complications from age-related diseases.

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