Scientists at China's Wuhan University have discovered the NeoCoV Coronavirus in regions across South Africa. As per reports, it has high transmission and death rates. Studies have confirmed the spread of the NeoCoV through bats in South Africa.

What is NeoCov?

The virus is connected to Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS COV). It has traits from both MERS-CoV and SARS-CoV-2, which causes Covid-19. While the virus was first found in a bat population, it has been known to spread among animals.

Notably, one in three people infected from NeoCoV could die due to the illness.

Is NeoCoV new?

It is not a new virus as it was discovered between 2012 and 2015 in Middle Eastern countries. Scientists have underlined NeoCoV's striking similarities to novel coronavirus in humans.

COVID-19 threat looms

Scientists have raised concerns over the virus emerging into a major threat for humans after one mutation. However, doctors have advised people not to panic due to the NeoCov.

Responding to questions related to the NeoCoV threat, the World Health Organization (WHO) has pointed out that the virus requires further study to determine its degree of concerns for humans.

“Whether the virus detected in the study will pose a risk for humans will require further study,” the health body was quoted by Russia’s TASS news agency.