The doctor spoke about the main difference between the new coronavirus in Brazil and COVID-19

The main difference between the new coronavirus in Brazil and SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) is that its structure is different. It is not yet known whether it can interact with the ACE2 receptor, through which COVID-19 enters cells. Kirill Masliev, Candidate of Medical Sciences, member of the State Council Commission "Long and Active Life", Head of the Department of Preventive Medicine at the Rudn University, founder of the Heroes Charitable Foundation, told Izvestia on October 30.

According to him, preliminary data show that the Brazilian virus belongs to the beta-coronavirus family and has certain similar genome regions with the pathogens SARS and MERS.

"If we talk about the new coronavirus found in Brazil in bats, it is important to understand that there are many similar findings. There are a huge number of strains and related viruses, and each of them requires monitoring, but not everyone poses a threat to humans," the expert said.

Masliev recommended minimizing people's contacts with potential reservoirs, maintaining transparency in data exchange between countries, and planning logistics in advance for the rapid transfer of reagents.

On the same day, it was reported that Rospotrebnadzor had taken control of reports of a new coronavirus detected in bats in Brazil. Currently, the risk of transmission of the virus from animals to humans remains low, but continued monitoring and in-depth research is necessary to ensure safety and preparedness for possible challenges in the future.

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