Scientists Map-Out The Global 'Hot Spots' Where New Coronaviruses Are Likely To Emerge

China has the largest hotspot (red) for the concurrence of high forest fragmentation, livestock density and human presence in the analysis. There are also high risk 'hotspots' in the UK and France, and low risk 'coldspots' in southern China, as well as the Middle East 

 Daily Mail: Scientists reveal the global 'hot spots' where new coronaviruses are likely to emerge - with China at the top of the list 

* Conditions are 'ripe' for coronaviruses to transmit from bats to humans in China 

* Forest fragmentation and livestock production there bring humans close to bats

* These bats are carriers of coronaviruses like SARS-CoV-2, MERS and CoV Ebola

* Human encroachment into wildlife may 'favour emergence of zoonotic diseases 

Experts have revealed locations of global 'hot spots' where new deadly coronaviruses may emerge, driven by global changes in land use by humans – including in China, France and the UK. 

Forest fragmentation, agricultural expansion and livestock production are all bringing humans into closer contact with horseshoe bats, which are known to carry zoonotic diseases, including Covid-19.  

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WNU Editor: I am surprised by the number of hot spots in Europe.