A Google search for “Frio Cave” in Uvalde County, Texas may make it seem like a tourist hotspot, with millions of Mexican free-tailed bats calling it home. Visitors can witness the breathtaking sight of these bats emerging at sunset, creating a unique experience. However, there is a darker history to Frio Cave that is not often mentioned on tourism websites – the transmission of rabies to two humans over fifty years ago.
Rabies is a deadly disease, with a near 99% fatality rate once symptoms appear. Bats are known to be carriers of the virus, and a simple bite can transmit the lyssavirus that causes rabies. In the case of the spelunkers at Frio Cave, it is believed that they contracted the virus through the air, rather than through direct contact with the bats.
Scientists conducted investigations and discovered that the rabies virus could be transmitted through the atmosphere in the cave, infecting animals in empty cages. While the virus did not become airborne in a way that would allow for human-to-human transmission, the incident raised concerns about the potential for such a scenario to occur.
Rabies is an RNA virus, known for its high mutation rates. Even small changes in the virus’s proteins could lead to increased pathogenicity and the ability to spread more easily among humans. This raises the possibility of a “gain-of-function” experiment, where researchers could manipulate the rabies virus to make it more contagious and resistant to current vaccines.
Gain-of-function research has come under scrutiny in recent years, especially in light of the Covid-19 pandemic. There are fears that such experiments could inadvertently create highly contagious and deadly viruses that could threaten human existence. While no one has attempted to make rabies more contagious through gain-of-function research, the possibility remains a concern.
Paul Offit, a renowned expert in vaccines, has warned about the potential consequences of enhancing rabies through gene editing. He highlighted the devastating impact it could have on humanity if such a virus were to spread uncontrollably. The risks associated with gain-of-function experiments must be carefully weighed against the potential benefits, ensuring that safeguards are in place to prevent catastrophic outcomes.
As we continue to explore the boundaries of scientific research, it is essential to prioritize the safety and well-being of the global population. The lessons learned from incidents like the one at Frio Cave serve as a stark reminder of the potential risks posed by infectious diseases and the importance of responsible research practices. By remaining vigilant and ethical in our scientific pursuits, we can mitigate the threats posed by emerging pathogens and safeguard human existence for generations to come.
