Pandemic 2.0? A New Study On Sunda Pangolin Raises Alarms

Just when we thought the worst was behind us, there might be something new, something more dangerous knocking at the door. A new research surrounding the breeding, buying, selling and overall illegal trade of animals has raised some red flags. Recently, a Sunda Pangolin rescued near the China-Vietnam border in early 2023 has reignited fears of another outbreak. The animal was injured, curled like a ball and breathing heavily when found at the scene. The physical wounds look obvious that it was trapped but there was a more alarming threat lying inside him: viruses eerily similar to the one that sparked the global pandemic of 2020.

Upon further examination of the pangolins seized from illegal wildlife trade routes in China, scientists have discovered types of coronaviruses in the species. One strain in particular shares about 92% genetic similarity with SARS-CoV-2, the virus behind COVID-19. That may not be the original source but it puts it dangerously close to being a candidate for pandemic 2.0.

A bigger cause of concern is the continued operation of illegal wildlife markets across all of Asia. For instance, in Indonesia’s Jatinegara market, animals like raccoon dogs, bats, macaques and songbirds are stacked in cages that are often placed on top of each other in hot and completely unsanitary conditions. There is blood, feces, urine and other close cross-species contact that creates the perfect breeding ground for new viruses to mutate and jump to humans

The Sunda pangolin species in question has also become a tragic poster child for the crisis. They are widely trafficked for the meat and scales because many believe that it has the ability to cure a number of diseases, however, there are no studies that prove it as yet. The animals are trapped, maimed, and sold under horrific conditions. Yet, the deeper issue is not just animal cruelty but what they would be carrying.

Some of the viruses found in pangolins even have a furin cleavage site — a mutation that helps viruses infect human lungs more easily. Sound familiar? All of this reminds us that maybe nature is not done yet and the next pandemic might be waiting just around the corner.