News > The world's bat lands are under attack, seeding risk of a new pandemic

The world's bat lands are under attack, seeding risk of a new pandemic

Undisturbed wildlife habitats provided a protective barrier between pathogens and people. But human incursions have created a minefield of risk covering more than 9 million sq km across 113 countries. Scientists have accelerated testing of bats in areas such as Laos, where they found viruses similar to the one that causes COVID-19. High-speed rail, like the link China is building in Southeast Asia, can help spread these viruses from once-remote areas to the rest of the world.