While the study provides valuable laboratory characterisation data on the virus’ ability to bind to human ACE2 receptors, it cannot be seen as evidence of an infection or transmission risk in humans.
In fact, the authors themselves caution against overstating the significance of their results. Many coronaviruses and influenza viruses of animal origin can replicate in human cells, however their replication in a laboratory does not necessarily mean that these viruses can successfully transmit from animals to humans, or between humans. There are many other factors which influence the ability of a virus to infect humans. What these findings do highlight, however, is the need for continued surveillance of coronaviruses and other pathogens with pandemic potential.
ECDC constantly monitors the epidemiological and virological situation in relation to respiratory viruses. For the latest data concerning COVID-19, respiratory syncytial virus and seasonal influenza, please visit the European Respiratory Virus Surveillance Summary (ERVISS).