Health specialists have warned that two newly identified viruses could become a serious public health risk in the United States.
The viruses include Influenza D, which is mainly transmitted from animals, and a type of coronavirus found in dogs. Until now, both viruses have received little scientific attention, but a recent research report has highlighted growing concerns.
Professor John Lednicky of the University of Florida said existing studies suggest that these viruses could cause respiratory infections in humans. However, there are currently no vaccines or effective protective measures in place to prevent their spread.
Experts caution that if either virus mutates and gains the ability to spread easily between people, it could lead to widespread outbreaks or even a global pandemic, as most people do not have immunity to these viruses.
