While there’s no evidence that Camp Hill virus has infected any humans yet – and the chances of it doing so are low – its discovery in North America is a reminder that viruses can emerge anywhere.
Thanks to new technology that allows scientists to study the genetics of viruses, they’ve now found nearly 20 species of henipaviruses around the world.
In comparison, a virus like measles can only infect humans, which makes it less likely to spread to other species.
But it also reminds us that viruses can suddenly jump from animals to humans in unpredictable ways.
Even though shrews usually live in forests and don’t come into much contact with people, the potential for the virus to spread remains a worry.
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