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While everyone is focussing their attention on the evolution of #COVIDー19 in Europe and USA, my concern right now is becoming South America based on several studies and I'll summarize 5 of them (references will be given at the end of the thread) 
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2012: Alpha-coronaviruses (α-CoVs) may use bats as hosts to spread human CoV NL63, which originated by evolution of Appalachian Ridge CoV strain 2 (ARCoV.2). This may allow some CoVs to readily circulate and exchange genetic material between strains found in bats and humans. 2/8
2013: Identification of novel α-CoVs in Brazil & Mexico, in bats with known/potential contact with humans. Their prevalence has been likely underestimated since only adult males were sampled & incidence of CoVs among juvenile & female bats is higher in some species. 3/8
2015: Study on bats which have adapted to urban areas & coexist with humans in Brazil shows that a CoV detected in those bats has close phylogenetic relationships to ARCoV.2 & porcine epidemic diarrhea virus. 4/8
2016: Identification & characterization of diverse genetic clusters of bat coronaviruses in Brazil from eight bat species. Two distinct β-CoV cluster within MERS-CoV containing lineage C. This highlights the biogeographic distribution of bats CoVs in the region. 5/8
Those bats in Brazil can be found occupying roofs, ceilings, or other human constructions. They often coexist with other bat species and humans.
Currently, ~18,500 #COVIDー19 cases in Brazil, ~3500 in Mexico but testing is < 300/1M pop so cases are likely to be higher. 6/8
Currently, ~18,500 #COVIDー19 cases in Brazil, ~3500 in Mexico but testing is < 300/1M pop so cases are likely to be higher. 6/8
