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Rey LMR, Delai RM, Batista ACCA, Ferreira L, Santos ICD, Del Vecchio MAC, Andrade ACS, Teles P, Pereira UDP, Gerber AL, Guimarães APDC, Almeida LGPD, Lamarca AP, Vasconcelos ATRD, Gonçalves DD. SARS-CoV-2 Research in Dogs ( Canis lupus familiaris) and Felines ( Felis silvestris catus) Domiciled in an International Border Region (Paraguay and Brazil). Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis 2024. [PMID: 38829161 DOI: 10.1089/vbz.2023.0154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction: COVID-19 is an infectious disease caused by SARS-CoV-2 that has become a serious threat to public health owing to its rapid spread from aerosols from infected people. Despite being considered a strictly human disease, there are reports in the literature about animals with confirmed presence of the virus. Aim: Owing to the scarcity of scientific literature on the potential for infection of animals and their importance for One Health, the objective of this work was to research SARS-CoV-2 RNA in felines (Felis silvestris catus) and dogs (Canis lupus familiaris) domiciled. Materials and Methods: Oropharyngeal swabs were collected from domestic dogs and cats belonging to patients diagnosed with COVID-19 from August to October 2021 and residents of the northwest and west regions of Paraná, Brazil. Results: Of the 34 samples collected, 14 were from dogs and 20 from cats. Three of these samples tested positive in real-time PCR, and two of them were also positive in the immunochromatographic test. After testing positive in real-time PCR, the samples underwent genetic sequencing using the Illumina COVIDSeq test. Of the 34 samples collected, three (9%), all of them female and from the feline species, tested positive in real-time PCR, with two of these (67%) also testing positive in the immunochromatographic test. Regarding sequencing, it was possible to sequence the three samples aligned with the AY.101 lineage, corresponding to the Delta variant. Conclusion: The occurrence of SARS-CoV-2 infection in dogs and cats is seen as an unintended event with significant implications for public health, including its potential transmission to other animal species. Further research is required to enhance our understanding of how this disease spreads among these animals and its broader impact on One Health initiatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laisa Marina Rosa Rey
- Pós-Graduandos do Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciência Animal com Ênfase em Produtos Bioativos, Universidade Paranaense (UNIPAR), Umuarama, Brasil
| | - Robson Michael Delai
- Pós-Graduandos do Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciência Animal com Ênfase em Produtos Bioativos, Universidade Paranaense (UNIPAR), Umuarama, Brasil
- Centro de Medicina Tropical da Fundação de Saúde Itaiguapy, Foz do Iguaçu, Brasil
| | - Aline Cristiane Cechinel Assing Batista
- Pós-Graduandos do Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciência Animal com Ênfase em Produtos Bioativos, Universidade Paranaense (UNIPAR), Umuarama, Brasil
- Centro de Medicina Tropical da Fundação de Saúde Itaiguapy, Foz do Iguaçu, Brasil
| | - Leonardo Ferreira
- Centro de Medicina Tropical da Fundação de Saúde Itaiguapy, Foz do Iguaçu, Brasil
| | - Isabela Carvalho Dos Santos
- Pós-Graduandos do Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciência Animal com Ênfase em Produtos Bioativos, Universidade Paranaense (UNIPAR), Umuarama, Brasil
| | - Marco Aurélio Cunha Del Vecchio
- Pós-Graduandos do Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciência Animal com Ênfase em Produtos Bioativos, Universidade Paranaense (UNIPAR), Umuarama, Brasil
| | - Ana Cláudia Souza Andrade
- Pós-Graduandos do Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciência Animal com Ênfase em Produtos Bioativos, Universidade Paranaense (UNIPAR), Umuarama, Brasil
| | - Pedro Teles
- Médico Veterinário autônomo, Self-employed veterinarian, Cascavel, Paraná, Brasil
| | - Ulisses de Pádua Pereira
- Docente do Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciência Animal, Universidade Estadual de Londrina (UEL), Londrina, Brasil
| | | | | | | | - Alessandra Pavan Lamarca
- Laboratório de Bioinformática, Laboratório Nacional de Computação Científica, Petrópolis, Brasil
| | | | - Daniela Dib Gonçalves
- Docente do Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciência Animal com Ênfase em Produtos Bioativos, Universidade Paranaense (UNIPAR), Umuarama, Brasil
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Carvajal M, Saenz C, Fuentes N, Guevara R, Muñoz E, Prado-Vivar B, Diaz E, Alfonso-Cortes F, Coloma J, Grunauer M, Rojas-Silva P, Cardenas PA, Barragan V. SARS-CoV-2 infection in brown-headed spider monkeys ( Ateles fusciceps) at a wildlife rescue center on the coast of Ecuador-South America. Microbiol Spectr 2024; 12:e0274123. [PMID: 38364080 PMCID: PMC10986564 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.02741-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 02/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Human populations can be affected in unpredictable ways by the emergence and spread of zoonotic diseases. The COVID-19 (coronavirus disease of 2019) pandemic was a reminder of how devastating these events can be if left unchecked. However, once they have spread globally, the impact of these diseases when entering non-exposed wildlife populations is unknown. The current study reports the infection of brown-headed spider monkeys (Ateles fusciceps) at a wildlife rescue center in Ecuador. Four monkeys were hospitalized, and all tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 (Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2) by RT-qPCR (Quantitative Reverse Transcription PCR). Fecal samples (n = 12) from monkeys at the rescue center also tested positive; three zookeepers responsible for feeding and deworming the monkeys also tested positive, suggesting human-animal transmission. Whole genome sequencing identified most samples' omicron clade 22B BA.5 lineage. These findings highlight the threat posed by an emerging zoonotic disease in wildlife species and the importance of preventing spillover and spillback events during epidemic or pandemic events.IMPORTANCEAlthough COVID-19 (coronavirus disease of 2019) has been primarily contained in humans through widespread vaccination, the impact and incidence of SARS-CoV-2 (Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus) and its transmission and epidemiology in wildlife may need to be addressed. In some natural environments, the proximity of animals to humans is difficult to control, creating perfect scenarios where susceptible wildlife can acquire the virus from humans. In these places, it is essential to understand how transmission can occur and to develop protocols to prevent infection. This study reports the infection of brown-headed spider monkeys with SARS-CoV-2, a red-listed monkey species, at a wildlife recovery center in Ecuador. This study reports the infection of brown-headed spider monkeys with SARS-CoV-2, indicating the potential for transmission between humans and wildlife primates and the importance of preventing such events in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mateo Carvajal
- Universidad San Francisco de Quito, Instituto de Microbiología, Quito, Ecuador
| | - Carolina Saenz
- Universidad San Francisco de Quito, Hospital de Fauna Silvestre TUERI-USFQ, Quito, Ecuador
| | | | - Rommel Guevara
- Universidad San Francisco de Quito, Instituto de Microbiología, Quito, Ecuador
| | - Erika Muñoz
- Universidad San Francisco de Quito, Instituto de Microbiología, Quito, Ecuador
| | - Belen Prado-Vivar
- Universidad San Francisco de Quito, Instituto de Microbiología, Quito, Ecuador
| | - Eduardo Diaz
- Universidad San Francisco de Quito, Escuela de Medicina Veterinaria, Quito, Ecuador
| | | | | | - Michelle Grunauer
- Universidad San Francisco de Quito, Escuela de Medicina, Quito, Ecuador
| | | | - Paul A. Cardenas
- Universidad San Francisco de Quito, Instituto de Microbiología, Quito, Ecuador
| | - Veronica Barragan
- Universidad San Francisco de Quito, Instituto de Microbiología, Quito, Ecuador
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Adlhoch C, Alm E, Enkirch T, Lamb F, Melidou A, Willgert K, Marangon S, Monne I, Stegeman JA, Delacourt R, Baldinelli F, Broglia A. Drivers for a pandemic due to avian influenza and options for One Health mitigation measures. EFSA J 2024; 22:e8735. [PMID: 38576537 PMCID: PMC10988447 DOI: 10.2903/j.efsa.2024.8735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Avian influenza viruses (AIV) remain prevalent among wild bird populations in the European Union and European Economic Area (EU/EEA), leading to significant illness in and death of birds. Transmission between bird and mammal species has been observed, particularly in fur animal farms, where outbreaks have been reported. While transmission from infected birds to humans is rare, there have been instances of exposure to these viruses since 2020 without any symptomatic infections reported in the EU/EEA. However, these viruses continue to evolve globally, and with the migration of wild birds, new strains carrying potential mutations for mammalian adaptation could be selected. If avian A(H5N1) influenza viruses acquire the ability to spread efficiently among humans, large-scale transmission could occur due to the lack of immune defences against H5 viruses in humans. The emergence of AIV capable of infecting mammals, including humans, can be facilitated by various drivers. Some intrinsic drivers are related to virus characteristics or host susceptibility. Other drivers are extrinsic and may increase exposure of mammals and humans to AIV thereby stimulating mutation and adaptation to mammals. Extrinsic drivers include the ecology of host species, such as including wildlife, human activities like farming practices and the use of natural resources, climatic and environmental factors. One Health measures to mitigate the risk of AIV adapting to mammals and humans focus on limiting exposure and preventing spread. Key options for actions include enhancing surveillance targeting humans and animals, ensuring access to rapid diagnostics, promoting collaboration between animal and human sectors, and implementing preventive measures such as vaccination. Effective communication to different involved target audiences should be emphasised, as well as strengthening veterinary infrastructure, enforcing biosecurity measures at farms, and reducing wildlife contact with domestic animals. Careful planning of poultry and fur animal farming, especially in areas with high waterfowl density, is highlighted for effective risk reduction.
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Tan ZH, Yong KY, Shu JJ. Predicting potential SARS-CoV-2 spillover and spillback in animals. JOURNAL OF MICROBIOLOGY, IMMUNOLOGY, AND INFECTION = WEI MIAN YU GAN RAN ZA ZHI 2024; 57:225-237. [PMID: 38262772 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmii.2024.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Revised: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 01/25/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic is spreading rapidly around the world, causing countries to impose lockdowns and efforts to develop vaccines on a global scale. However, human-to-animal and animal-to-human transmission cannot be ignored, as severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) can spread rapidly in farmed and wild animals. This could create a worrying cycle of SARS-CoV-2 spillover from humans to animals and spillback of new strains back into humans, rendering vaccines ineffective. METHOD This study provides a key indicator of animals that may be potential susceptible hosts for SARS-CoV-2 and coronavirus infections by analysing the phylogenetic distance between host angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 and the coronavirus spike protein. Crucially, our analysis identifies animals that are at elevated risk from a spillover and spillback incident. RESULTS One group of animals has been identified as potentially susceptible to SARS-CoV-2 by harbouring a parasitic coronavirus spike protein similar to the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein. These animals may serve as amplification hosts in spillover events from zoonotic reservoirs. This group consists of a mixture of animals infected internally and naturally: minks, dogs, cats, tigers. Additionally, no internal or natural infections have been found in masked palm civet. CONCLUSION Tracing interspecies transmission in multi-host environments based solely on in vitro and in vivo examinations of animal susceptibility or serology is a time-consuming task. This approach allows rapid identification of high-risk animals to prioritize research and assessment of the risk of zoonotic disease transmission in the environment. It is a tool to rapidly identify zoonotic species that may cause outbreaks or participate in expansion cycles of coexistence with their hosts. This prevents the spread of coronavirus infections between species, preventing spillover and spillback incidents from occurring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zi Hian Tan
- School of Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, 639798, Singapore
| | - Kian Yan Yong
- School of Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, 639798, Singapore
| | - Jian-Jun Shu
- School of Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, 639798, Singapore.
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5
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Fang R, Yang X, Guo Y, Peng B, Dong R, Li S, Xu S. SARS-CoV-2 infection in animals: Patterns, transmission routes, and drivers. ECO-ENVIRONMENT & HEALTH (ONLINE) 2024; 3:45-54. [PMID: 38169914 PMCID: PMC10758742 DOI: 10.1016/j.eehl.2023.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Revised: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is more widespread in animals than previously thought, and it may be able to infect a wider range of domestic and wild species. To effectively control the spread of the virus and protect animal health, it is crucial to understand the cross-species transmission mechanisms and risk factors of SARS-CoV-2. This article collects published literature on SARS-CoV-2 in animals and examines the distribution, transmission routes, biophysical, and anthropogenic drivers of infected animals. The reported cases of infection in animals are mainly concentrated in South America, North America, and Europe, and species affected include lions, white-tailed deer, pangolins, minks, and cats. Biophysical factors influencing infection of animals with SARS-CoV-2 include environmental determinants, high-risk landscapes, air quality, and susceptibility of different animal species, while anthropogenic factors comprise human behavior, intensive livestock farming, animal markets, and land management. Due to current research gaps and surveillance capacity shortcomings, future mitigation strategies need to be designed from a One Health perspective, with research focused on key regions with significant data gaps in Asia and Africa to understand the drivers, pathways, and spatiotemporal dynamics of interspecies transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruying Fang
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Xin Yang
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Yiyang Guo
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Bingjie Peng
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Ruixuan Dong
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Sen Li
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Shunqing Xu
- School of Life Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China
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Ghai RR, Straily A, Wineland N, Calogero J, Stobierski MG, Signs K, Blievernicht M, Torres-Mendoza Y, Waltenburg MA, Condrey JA, Blankenship HM, Riner D, Barr N, Schalow M, Goodrich J, Collins C, Ahmad A, Metz JM, Herzegh O, Straka K, Arsnoe DM, Duffiney AG, Shriner SA, Kainulainen MH, Carpenter A, Whitehill F, Wendling NM, Stoddard RA, Retchless AC, Uehara A, Tao Y, Li Y, Zhang J, Tong S, Barton Behravesh C. Epidemiologic and Genomic Evidence for Zoonotic Transmission of SARS-CoV-2 among People and Animals on a Michigan Mink Farm, United States, 2020. Viruses 2023; 15:2436. [PMID: 38140677 PMCID: PMC10747742 DOI: 10.3390/v15122436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2023] [Revised: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Farmed mink are one of few animals in which infection with SARS-CoV-2 has resulted in sustained transmission among a population and spillback from mink to people. In September 2020, mink on a Michigan farm exhibited increased morbidity and mortality rates due to confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection. We conducted an epidemiologic investigation to identify the source of initial mink exposure, assess the degree of spread within the facility's overall mink population, and evaluate the risk of further viral spread on the farm and in surrounding wildlife habitats. Three farm employees reported symptoms consistent with COVID-19 the same day that increased mortality rates were observed among the mink herd. One of these individuals, and another asymptomatic employee, tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 by real-time reverse transcription PCR (RT-qPCR) 9 days later. All but one mink sampled on the farm were positive for SARS-CoV-2 based on nucleic acid detection from at least one oral, nasal, or rectal swab tested by RT-qPCR (99%). Sequence analysis showed high degrees of similarity between sequences from mink and the two positive farm employees. Epidemiologic and genomic data, including the presence of F486L and N501T mutations believed to arise through mink adaptation, support the hypothesis that the two employees with SARS-CoV-2 nucleic acid detection contracted COVID-19 from mink. However, the specific source of virus introduction onto the farm was not identified. Three companion animals living with mink farm employees and 31 wild animals of six species sampled in the surrounding area were negative for SARS-CoV-2 by RT-qPCR. Results from this investigation support the necessity of a One Health approach to manage the zoonotic spread of SARS-CoV-2 and underscores the critical need for multifaceted public health approaches to prevent the introduction and spread of respiratory viruses on mink farms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ria R. Ghai
- U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30333, USA; (R.R.G.)
| | - Anne Straily
- U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30333, USA; (R.R.G.)
| | - Nora Wineland
- Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, Lansing, MI 48933, USA
| | - Jennifer Calogero
- Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, Lansing, MI 48933, USA
| | | | - Kimberly Signs
- Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, Lansing, MI 48909, USA
| | - Melissa Blievernicht
- Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, Lansing, MI 48933, USA
| | | | | | - Jillian A. Condrey
- U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30333, USA; (R.R.G.)
| | | | - Diana Riner
- Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, Lansing, MI 48909, USA
| | - Nancy Barr
- Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, Lansing, MI 48933, USA
| | - Michele Schalow
- Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, Lansing, MI 48933, USA
| | - Jarold Goodrich
- Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, Lansing, MI 48933, USA
| | - Cheryl Collins
- Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, Lansing, MI 48933, USA
| | - Ausaf Ahmad
- U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30333, USA; (R.R.G.)
| | - John Michael Metz
- U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30333, USA; (R.R.G.)
| | - Owen Herzegh
- U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30333, USA; (R.R.G.)
| | - Kelly Straka
- Michigan Department of Natural Resources, Lansing, MI 48909, USA
| | - Dustin M. Arsnoe
- U.S. Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, Washington, DC 20250, USA
| | - Anthony G. Duffiney
- U.S. Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, Washington, DC 20250, USA
| | - Susan A. Shriner
- U.S. Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, Washington, DC 20250, USA
| | | | - Ann Carpenter
- U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30333, USA; (R.R.G.)
| | - Florence Whitehill
- U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30333, USA; (R.R.G.)
| | - Natalie M. Wendling
- U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30333, USA; (R.R.G.)
| | - Robyn A. Stoddard
- U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30333, USA; (R.R.G.)
| | - Adam C. Retchless
- U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30333, USA; (R.R.G.)
| | - Anna Uehara
- U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30333, USA; (R.R.G.)
| | - Ying Tao
- U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30333, USA; (R.R.G.)
| | - Yan Li
- U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30333, USA; (R.R.G.)
| | - Jing Zhang
- U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30333, USA; (R.R.G.)
| | - Suxiang Tong
- U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30333, USA; (R.R.G.)
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Fernández-Bastit L, Vergara-Alert J, Segalés J. Transmission of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 from humans to animals: is there a risk of novel reservoirs? Curr Opin Virol 2023; 63:101365. [PMID: 37793299 DOI: 10.1016/j.coviro.2023.101365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2023] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023]
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is a zoonotic virus able to infect humans and multiple nonhuman animal species. Most natural infections in companion, captive zoo, livestock, and wildlife species have been related to a reverse transmission, raising concern about potential generation of animal reservoirs due to human-animal interactions. To date, American mink and white-tailed deer are the only species that led to extensive intraspecies transmission of SARS-CoV-2 after reverse zoonosis, leading to an efficient spread of the virus and subsequent animal-to-human transmission. Viral host adaptations increase the probability of new SARS-CoV-2 variants' emergence that could cause a major global health impact. Therefore, applying the One Health approach is crucial to prevent and overcome future threats for human, animal, and environmental fields.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leira Fernández-Bastit
- Unitat Mixta d'Investigació IRTA-UAB en Sanitat Animal, Centre de Recerca en Sanitat Animal (CReSA), Campus de la Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), 08193 Bellaterra, Catalonia, Spain; IRTA, Programa de Sanitat Animal, Centre de Recerca en Sanitat Animal (CReSA), Campus de la Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), 08193 Bellaterra, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Júlia Vergara-Alert
- Unitat Mixta d'Investigació IRTA-UAB en Sanitat Animal, Centre de Recerca en Sanitat Animal (CReSA), Campus de la Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), 08193 Bellaterra, Catalonia, Spain; IRTA, Programa de Sanitat Animal, Centre de Recerca en Sanitat Animal (CReSA), Campus de la Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), 08193 Bellaterra, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Joaquim Segalés
- Unitat Mixta d'Investigació IRTA-UAB en Sanitat Animal, Centre de Recerca en Sanitat Animal (CReSA), Campus de la Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), 08193 Bellaterra, Catalonia, Spain; Departament de Sanitat i Anatomia Animals, Facultat de Veterinària, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra, Catalonia, Spain.
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Jaramillo Hernández DA, Chacón MC, Velásquez MA, Vásquez-Trujillo A, Sánchez AP, Salazar Garces LF, García GL, Velasco-Santamaría YM, Pedraza LN, Lesmes-Rodríguez LC. Seroprevalence of exposure to SARS-CoV-2 in domestic dogs and cats and its relationship with COVID-19 cases in the city of Villavicencio, Colombia. F1000Res 2023; 11:1184. [PMID: 37965037 PMCID: PMC10643872 DOI: 10.12688/f1000research.125780.3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Since the beginning of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) outbreak, different animal species have been implicated as possible intermediate hosts that could facilitate the transmission of the virus between species. The detection of these hosts has intensified, reporting wild, zoo, farm, and pet animals. The goal of this study was to determine the seroprevalence of anti-SARS-CoV-2 immunoglobulins (IgG) in domestic dogs and cats and its epidemiological association with the frequency of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients in Villavicencio, Colombia. Methods: 300 dogs and 135 cats were randomly selected in a two-stage distribution by clusters according to COVID-19 cases (positive RT-qPCR for SARS-CoV-2) within the human population distributed within the eight communes of Villavicencio. Indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) technique was applied in order to determine anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG in sera samples. Kernel density estimation was used to compare the prevalence of COVID-19 cases with the seropositivity of dogs and cats. Results: The overall seroprevalence of anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG was 4.6% (95% CI=3.2-7.4). In canines, 3.67% (95% CI=2.1-6.4) and felines 6.67% (95% CI=3.6-12.18). Kernel density estimation indicated that seropositive cases were concentrated in the southwest region of the city. There was a positive association between SARS-CoV-2 seropositivity in pet animals and their habitat in Commune 2 (adjusted OR=5.84; 95% CI=1.1-30.88). Spearman's correlation coefficients were weakly positive ( p=0.32) between the ratio of COVID-19 cases in November 2020 and the results for domestic dogs and cats from the eight communes of Villavicencio. Conclusions: In the present research cats were more susceptible to SARS-CoV-2 infection than dogs. This study provides the first positive results of anti-SARS-CoV-2 ELISA serological tests in domestic dogs and cats in Colombia with information about the virus transmission dynamics in Latin America during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - María Clara Chacón
- Programa de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Escuela de Ciencias Animales, Facultad de Ciencias Agropecuarias y Recursos Naturales, Universidad de los Llanos, Villavicencio, Meta, 1745, Colombia
| | - María Alejandra Velásquez
- Programa de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Escuela de Ciencias Animales, Facultad de Ciencias Agropecuarias y Recursos Naturales, Universidad de los Llanos, Villavicencio, Meta, 1745, Colombia
| | - Adolfo Vásquez-Trujillo
- Escuela de Ciencias Animales, Universidad de los Llanos, Villavicencio, Meta, 1745, Colombia
| | - Ana Patricia Sánchez
- Secretaria de Salud Municipal, Alcaldía de Villavicencio, Villavicencio, Meta, 110221, Colombia
| | - Luis Fabian Salazar Garces
- Research and Development Department (DIDE), Faculty of Health Sciences, Technical University of Ambato, Ambato, Ambato, Av. Colombia and Chile s/n, Ecuador
| | - Gina Lorena García
- Escuela de Ciencias Animales, Universidad de los Llanos, Villavicencio, Meta, 1745, Colombia
| | | | - Luz Natalia Pedraza
- Escuela de Ciencias Animales, Universidad de los Llanos, Villavicencio, Meta, 1745, Colombia
| | - Lida Carolina Lesmes-Rodríguez
- Departamento de Biología & Química, Facultad de Ciencias Básicas e Ingeniería, Universidad de los Llanos, Villavicencio, Meta, 1745, Colombia
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Enabulele EE, Le Clec'h W, Roberts EK, Thompson CW, McDonough MM, Ferguson AW, Bradley RD, Anderson TJC, Platt RN. Prospecting for Zoonotic Pathogens by Using Targeted DNA Enrichment. Emerg Infect Dis 2023; 29:1566-1579. [PMID: 37486179 PMCID: PMC10370864 DOI: 10.3201/eid2908.221818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
More than 60 zoonoses are linked to small mammals, including some of the most devastating pathogens in human history. Millions of museum-archived tissues are available to understand natural history of those pathogens. Our goal was to maximize the value of museum collections for pathogen-based research by using targeted sequence capture. We generated a probe panel that includes 39,916 80-bp RNA probes targeting 32 pathogen groups, including bacteria, helminths, fungi, and protozoans. Laboratory-generated, mock-control samples showed that we are capable of enriching targeted loci from pathogen DNA 2,882‒6,746-fold. We identified bacterial species in museum-archived samples, including Bartonella, a known human zoonosis. These results showed that probe-based enrichment of pathogens is a highly customizable and efficient method for identifying pathogens from museum-archived tissues.
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10
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Tyson GB, Jones S, Montreuil-Spencer C, Logan N, Scott S, Sasvari H, McDonald M, Marshall L, Murcia PR, Willett BJ, Weir W, Hosie MJ. Increase in SARS-CoV-2 Seroprevalence in UK Domestic Felids Despite Weak Immunogenicity of Post-Omicron Variants. Viruses 2023; 15:1661. [PMID: 37632004 PMCID: PMC10458763 DOI: 10.3390/v15081661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2023] [Revised: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, SARS-CoV-2 infections in domestic cats have caused concern for both animal health and the potential for inter-species transmission. Cats are known to be susceptible to the Omicron variant and its descendants, however, the feline immune response to these variants is not well defined. We aimed to estimate the current seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 in UK pet cats, as well as characterise the neutralising antibody response to the Omicron (BA.1) variant. A neutralising seroprevalence of 4.4% and an overall seroprevalence of 13.9% was observed. Both purebred and male cats were found to have the highest levels of seroprevalence, as well as cats aged between two and five years. The Omicron variant was found to have a lower immunogenicity in cats than the B.1, Alpha and Delta variants, which reflects previous reports of immune and vaccine evasion in humans. These results further underline the importance of surveillance of SARS-CoV-2 infections in UK cats as the virus continues to evolve.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grace B. Tyson
- MRC-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research, Glasgow G61 1QH, UK
- School of Biodiversity, One Health and Veterinary Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G61 1QH, UK
| | - Sarah Jones
- MRC-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research, Glasgow G61 1QH, UK
- School of Biodiversity, One Health and Veterinary Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G61 1QH, UK
| | - Chloe Montreuil-Spencer
- School of Biodiversity, One Health and Veterinary Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G61 1QH, UK
| | - Nicola Logan
- MRC-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research, Glasgow G61 1QH, UK
| | - Sam Scott
- MRC-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research, Glasgow G61 1QH, UK
| | - Hagar Sasvari
- MRC-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research, Glasgow G61 1QH, UK
| | - Michael McDonald
- School of Biodiversity, One Health and Veterinary Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G61 1QH, UK
| | - Leigh Marshall
- School of Biodiversity, One Health and Veterinary Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G61 1QH, UK
| | - Pablo R. Murcia
- MRC-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research, Glasgow G61 1QH, UK
| | - Brian J. Willett
- MRC-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research, Glasgow G61 1QH, UK
| | - William Weir
- School of Biodiversity, One Health and Veterinary Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G61 1QH, UK
| | - Margaret J. Hosie
- MRC-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research, Glasgow G61 1QH, UK
- School of Biodiversity, One Health and Veterinary Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G61 1QH, UK
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11
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Fischer EAJ, Broens EM, Kooistra HS, De Rooij MMT, Stegeman JA, De Jong MCM. Contribution of cats and dogs to SARS-CoV-2 transmission in households. Front Vet Sci 2023; 10:1151772. [PMID: 37519992 PMCID: PMC10375487 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1151772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction SARS-CoV-2 is known to jump across species. The occurrence of transmission in households between humans and companion animals has been shown, but the contribution of companion animals to the overall transmission within a household is unknown. The basic reproduction number (R0) is an important indicator to quantify transmission. For a pathogen with multiple host species, such as SARS-CoV-2, the basic reproduction number needs to be calculated from the partial reproduction numbers for each combination of host species. Method In this study, the basic and partial reproduction numbers for SARS-CoV-2 were estimated by reanalyzing a survey of Dutch households with dogs and cats and minimally one SARS-CoV-2-infected human. Results For households with cats, a clear correlation between the number of cats and the basic reproduction number (Spearman's correlation: p 0.40, p-value: 1.4 × 10-5) was identified, while for dogs, the correlation was smaller and not significant (Spearman's correlation: p 0.12, p-value: 0.21). Partial reproduction numbers from cats or dogs to humans were 0.3 (0.0-2.0) and 0.3 (0.0-3.5) and from humans to cats or dogs were 0.6 (0.4-0.8) and 0.6 (0.4-0.9). Discussion Thus, the estimations of within-household transmission indicated the likelihood of transmission from these companion animals to humans and vice versa, but the observational nature of this study limited the ability to establish conclusive evidence. This study's findings support the advice provided during the pandemic to COVID-19 patients to maintain distance from companion animals as a precautionary measure and given the possibility of transmission, although there is an overall relatively limited impact on the pandemic when compared to human-to-human transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Els M. Broens
- Faculty Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Hans S. Kooistra
- Faculty Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | | | | | - Mart C. M. De Jong
- Department of Quantitative Veterinary Epidemiology, Wageningen University, Wageningen, Netherlands
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12
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Duijvestijn MBHM, Schuurman NNMP, Vernooij JCM, van Leeuwen MAJM, Bosch BJ, van den Brand JMA, Wagenaar JA, van Kuppeveld FJM, Egberink HF, Verhagen JH. Serological Survey of Retrovirus and Coronavirus Infections, including SARS-CoV-2, in Rural Stray Cats in The Netherlands, 2020-2022. Viruses 2023; 15:1531. [PMID: 37515217 PMCID: PMC10385588 DOI: 10.3390/v15071531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Revised: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/08/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Stray cats can host (zoonotic) viral pathogens and act as a source of infection for domestic cats or humans. In this cross-sectional (sero)prevalence study, sera from 580 stray cats living in 56 different cat groups in rural areas in The Netherlands were collected from October 2020 to July 2022. These were used to investigate the prevalence of the cat-specific feline leukemia virus (FeLV, n = 580), the seroprevalence of the cat-specific feline viruses feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV, n = 580) and feline coronavirus (FCoV, n = 407), and the zoonotic virus severe acute respiratory coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2, n = 407) using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs). ELISA-positive results were confirmed using Western blot (FIV) or pseudovirus neutralization test (SARS-CoV-2). The FIV seroprevalence was 5.0% (95% CI (Confidence Interval) 3.4-7.1) and ranged from 0-19.0% among groups. FIV-specific antibodies were more often detected in male cats, cats ≥ 3 years and cats with reported health problems. No FeLV-positive cats were found (95% CI 0.0-0.6). The FCoV seroprevalence was 33.7% (95% CI 29.1-38.5) and ranged from 4.7-85.7% among groups. FCoV-specific antibodies were more often detected in cats ≥ 3 years, cats with reported health problems and cats living in industrial areas or countryside residences compared to cats living at holiday parks or campsites. SARS-CoV-2 antibodies against the subunit 1 (S1) and receptor binding domain (RBD) protein were detected in 2.7% (95% CI 1.4-4.8) of stray cats, but sera were negative in the pseudovirus neutralization test and therefore were considered SARS-CoV-2 suspected. Our findings suggest that rural stray cats in The Netherlands can be a source of FIV and FCoV, indicating a potential risk for transmission to other cats, while the risk for FeLV is low. However, suspected SARS-CoV-2 infections in these cats were uncommon. We found no evidence of SARS-CoV-2 cat-to-cat spread in the studied stray cat groups and consider the likelihood of spillover to humans as low.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirjam B H M Duijvestijn
- Clinical Infectiology, Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 1, 3584 CL Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Nancy N M P Schuurman
- Section of Virology, Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 1, 3584 CL Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Johannes C M Vernooij
- Division of Farm Animal Health, Department of Population Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 7, 3584 CL Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | - Berend-Jan Bosch
- Section of Virology, Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 1, 3584 CL Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Judith M A van den Brand
- Division of Pathology, Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 1, 3584 CL Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Jaap A Wagenaar
- Clinical Infectiology, Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 1, 3584 CL Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Frank J M van Kuppeveld
- Section of Virology, Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 1, 3584 CL Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Herman F Egberink
- Clinical Infectiology, Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 1, 3584 CL Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Section of Virology, Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 1, 3584 CL Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Josanne H Verhagen
- Clinical Infectiology, Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 1, 3584 CL Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Section of Virology, Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 1, 3584 CL Utrecht, The Netherlands
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13
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Žigaitė S, Masiulis M, Bušauskas P, Pilevičienė S, Buitkuvienė J, Paulauskas V, Malakauskas A. Evaluation of SARS-CoV-2 passive surveillance in Lithuanian mink farms, 2020-2021. Front Vet Sci 2023; 10:1181826. [PMID: 37360410 PMCID: PMC10288870 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1181826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The newly emerged SARS-CoV-2, causing COVID-19 in humans, is also infecting American mink (Neovison vison), used in fur production. Since 2020, passive surveillance of SARS-CoV-2 in mink farms was implemented in Lithuania. Here, we describe data from a survey of all 57 active Lithuanian mink farms carried out during November-December 2021 to complement passive surveillance in the country. In all 57 mink farms, nasopharyngeal swab samples were collected from dead or live mink and tested by real-time RT-PCR. Dead mink samples were tested in pools of 5, while live mink samples were tested individually. In 19 mink farms, blood serum was collected and tested for antibodies to determine previous exposure to the virus. Environmental samples from 55 farms were also collected and tested in pooled samples by real-time RT-PCR. The present survey has detected 22.81% viral RNA-positive mink farms and a high number of mink farms that were exposed (84.21, 95% CI 67.81-100%) to the virus. The increasing exposure of mink farms to the virus due to growing human COVID-19 cases and limitations of passive surveillance could explain the observed epidemiological situation of SARS-CoV-2 in Lithuanian mink farms, compared to the few positive farms previously detected by passive surveillance. The unexpected widespread exposure of mink farms to SARS-CoV-2 suggests that passive surveillance is ineffective for early detection of SARS-CoV-2 in mink. Further studies are needed to reveal the present status in previously infected mink farms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvija Žigaitė
- Veterinary Academy, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - Marius Masiulis
- Veterinary Academy, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Kaunas, Lithuania
- State Food and Veterinary Service, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | | | - Simona Pilevičienė
- National Food and Veterinary Risk Assessment Institute, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Jūratė Buitkuvienė
- National Food and Veterinary Risk Assessment Institute, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | | | - Alvydas Malakauskas
- Veterinary Academy, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Kaunas, Lithuania
- State Food and Veterinary Service, Vilnius, Lithuania
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14
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Pandit R, Matthews QL. A SARS-CoV-2: Companion Animal Transmission and Variants Classification. Pathogens 2023; 12:775. [PMID: 37375465 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12060775] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Revised: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The continuous emergence of novel viruses and their diseases are a threat to global public health as there have been three outbreaks of coronaviruses that are highly pathogenic to humans in the span of the last two decades, severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS)-CoV in 2002, Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS)-CoV in 2012, and novel SARS-CoV-2 which emerged in 2019. The unprecedented spread of SARS-CoV-2 worldwide has given rise to multiple SARS-CoV-2 variants that have either altered transmissibility, infectivity, or immune escaping ability, causing diseases in a broad range of animals including human and non-human hosts such as companion, farm, zoo, or wild animals. In this review, we have discussed the recent SARS-CoV-2 outbreak, potential animal reservoirs, and natural infections in companion and farm animals, with a particular focus on SARS-CoV-2 variants. The expeditious development of COVID-19 vaccines and the advancements in antiviral therapeutics have contained the COVID-19 pandemic to some extent; however, extensive research and surveillance concerning viral epidemiology, animal transmission, variants, or seroprevalence in diverse hosts are essential for the future eradication of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachana Pandit
- Microbiology Program, Department of Biological Sciences, College of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, Alabama State University, Montgomery, AL 36104, USA
| | - Qiana L Matthews
- Microbiology Program, Department of Biological Sciences, College of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, Alabama State University, Montgomery, AL 36104, USA
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, Alabama State University, Montgomery, AL 36104, USA
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15
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Kuhlmeier E, Chan T, Meli ML, Willi B, Wolfensberger A, Reitt K, Hüttl J, Jones S, Tyson G, Hosie MJ, Zablotski Y, Hofmann-Lehmann R. A Risk Factor Analysis of SARS-CoV-2 Infection in Animals in COVID-19-Affected Households. Viruses 2023; 15:731. [PMID: 36992440 PMCID: PMC10051903 DOI: 10.3390/v15030731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2023] [Revised: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
A higher prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 infections in animals that have close contact with SARS-CoV-2-positive humans ("COVID-19 households") has been demonstrated in several countries. This prospective study aimed to determine the SARS-CoV-2 prevalence in animals from Swiss COVID-19 households and to assess the potential risk factors for infection. The study included 226 companion animals (172 cats, 76.1%; 49 dogs, 21.7%; and 5 other animals, 2.2%) from 122 COVID-19 households with 336 human household members (including 230 SARS-CoV-2-positive people). The animals were tested for viral RNA using an RT-qPCR and/or serologically for antibodies and neutralizing activity. Additionally, surface samples from animal fur and beds underwent an RT-qPCR. A questionnaire about hygiene, animal hygiene, and contact intensity was completed by the household members. A total of 49 of the 226 animals (21.7%) from 31 of the 122 households (25.4%) tested positive/questionably positive for SARS-CoV-2, including 37 of the 172 cats (21.5%) and 12 of the 49 dogs (24.5%). The surface samples tested positive significantly more often in households with SARS-CoV-2-positive animals than in households with SARS-CoV-2-negative animals (p = 0.011). Significantly more animals tested positive in the multivariable analysis for households with minors. For cats, a shorter length of outdoor access and a higher frequency of removing droppings from litterboxes were factors that were significantly associated with higher infection rates. The study emphasizes that the behavior of owners and the living conditions of animals can influence the likelihood of a SARS-CoV-2 infection in companion animals. Therefore, it is crucial to monitor the infection transmission and dynamics in animals, as well as to identify the possible risk factors for animals in infected households.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evelyn Kuhlmeier
- Clinical Laboratory, Vetsuisse Faculty, Department of Clinical Diagnostics and Services, and Center for Clinical Studies, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 260, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland; (T.C.); (M.L.M.); (R.H.-L.)
| | - Tatjana Chan
- Clinical Laboratory, Vetsuisse Faculty, Department of Clinical Diagnostics and Services, and Center for Clinical Studies, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 260, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland; (T.C.); (M.L.M.); (R.H.-L.)
| | - Marina L. Meli
- Clinical Laboratory, Vetsuisse Faculty, Department of Clinical Diagnostics and Services, and Center for Clinical Studies, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 260, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland; (T.C.); (M.L.M.); (R.H.-L.)
| | - Barbara Willi
- Clinic for Small Animal Internal Medicine, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 260, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland;
| | - Aline Wolfensberger
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Hospital Epidemiology, University Hospital Zurich, Rämistrasse 100, 8091 Zurich, Switzerland;
| | - Katja Reitt
- Center for Laboratory Medicine, Veterinary Diagnostic Services, Frohbergstrasse 3, 9001 St. Gallen, Switzerland; (K.R.); (J.H.)
| | - Julia Hüttl
- Center for Laboratory Medicine, Veterinary Diagnostic Services, Frohbergstrasse 3, 9001 St. Gallen, Switzerland; (K.R.); (J.H.)
| | - Sarah Jones
- School of Veterinary Medicine, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Bearsden Road, Glasgow G61 1QH, UK; (S.J.); (G.T.)
- MRC-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Bearsden Road, Glasgow G61 1QH, UK
| | - Grace Tyson
- School of Veterinary Medicine, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Bearsden Road, Glasgow G61 1QH, UK; (S.J.); (G.T.)
| | - Margaret J. Hosie
- MRC-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Bearsden Road, Glasgow G61 1QH, UK
| | - Yury Zablotski
- Clinic of Small Animal Medicine, Centre for Clinical Veterinary Medicine, LMU Munich, 80539 Munich, Germany;
| | - Regina Hofmann-Lehmann
- Clinical Laboratory, Vetsuisse Faculty, Department of Clinical Diagnostics and Services, and Center for Clinical Studies, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 260, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland; (T.C.); (M.L.M.); (R.H.-L.)
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16
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A linear DNA encoding the SARS-CoV-2 receptor binding domain elicits potent immune response and neutralizing antibodies in domestic cats. Mol Ther Methods Clin Dev 2023; 28:238-248. [PMID: 36618106 PMCID: PMC9806924 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2022.12.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2022] [Accepted: 12/31/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the etiologic agent of the COVID-19 pandemic, has been shown to infect a wide range of animal species, especially mammals, and besides human-to-human transmission, human-to-animal transmission has also been observed in some wild animals and pets, especially in cats. It has been demonstrated that cats are permissive to COVID-19 and are susceptible to airborne infections. Given the high transmissibility potential of SARS-CoV-2 to different host species and the close contact between humans and animals, it is crucial to find mechanisms to prevent the transmission chain and reduce the risk of spillover to susceptible species. Here, we show results from a clinical trial conducted in domestic cats to assess safety and immunogenicity of a linear DNA (linDNA) vaccine encoding the receptor-binding domain (RBD) from SARS-CoV-2 (Lin-COVID-eVax). Lin-COVID-eVax proved to be safe, with no significant adverse events, and was able to elicit both RBD-specific antibodies and T cells. Also, the linDNA vaccine induced neutralizing antibody titers against ancestral SARS-CoV-2 virus and its variants. These findings demonstrate the safety and immunogenicity of a genetic vaccine against COVID-19 administered to cats and strongly support the development of vaccines for preventing viral spread in susceptible species, especially those in close contact with humans.
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17
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Espinosa-Gómez FC, Bautista E, Palacios-Cruz OE, Téllez-Ramírez A, Vázquez-Briones DB, Flores de Los Ángeles C, Abella-Medrano CA, Escobedo-Straffón JL, Aguirre-Alarcón H, Pérez-Silva NB, Solís-Hernández M, Navarro-López R, Aguirre AA. Host traits, ownership behaviour and risk factors of SARS-CoV-2 infection in domestic pets in Mexico. Zoonoses Public Health 2023; 70:327-340. [PMID: 36757053 DOI: 10.1111/zph.13030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2022] [Revised: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 01/25/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2023]
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 can infect pets under natural conditions, which raises questions about the risk factors related to the susceptibility of these animals to infection. The status of pet infection by SARS-CoV-2 in Mexico is not well-understood. We aimed to estimate the frequency of positive household cats and dogs to viral RNA and antibodies for SARS-CoV-2 during the second wave of human infections in Mexico, and to recognize the major risk factors related to host and pet ownership behaviour. We evaluated two study groups, cats and dogs from COVID-19-infected/-suspected households (n = 44) and those admitted for veterinary care for any reason at several veterinary hospitals in Puebla City, Mexico (n = 91). Using RT-PCR, we identified the presence of SARS-CoV-2 RNA in swabs of four dogs (18.18%) and zero cats in COVID-19-infected/-suspected households; within this group, 31.82% of dogs and 27.27% of cats were tested IgG ELISA-positive; and neutralizing antibodies were detected in one dog (4.55%) and two cats (9.09%). In the random group (pets evaluated at private clinics and veterinary teaching hospital), 25.00% of dogs and 43.59% of cats were ELISA-positive and only one cat showed neutralizing antibodies (2.56%). Older than 4-year-old, other pets at home, and daily cleaning of pet dish, were each associated with an increase in SARS-CoV-2 infection (p < 0.05). Allowing face lick, sharing bed/food with pets and owner tested positive or suspected COVID-19 were not significant risk factors, but more than 4 h the owner spent away from home during the lockdown for COVID-19 (OR = 0.37, p = 0.01), and outdoor pet food tray (OR = 0.32, p = 0.01) significantly decreased the risks of SARS-CoV-2 infection in pets, suggesting that time the owner spends with their pet is an important risk factor.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Elizabeth Bautista
- Laboratorio de Biotecnología Médica y Farmacéutica, Facultad de Biotecnología, Universidad Popular y Autónoma del Estado de Puebla (UPAEP), Puebla, Mexico
| | - Oscar Emilio Palacios-Cruz
- Especialidad en Medicina y Cirugía de Perros y Gatos, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Universidad Popular Autónoma del Estado de Puebla (UPAEP), Puebla, Mexico
| | - Alejandra Téllez-Ramírez
- Especialidad en Medicina y Cirugía de Perros y Gatos, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Universidad Popular Autónoma del Estado de Puebla (UPAEP), Puebla, Mexico
| | - Daniela Belem Vázquez-Briones
- Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Universidad Popular Autónoma del Estado de Puebla (UPAEP), Puebla, Mexico
| | - César Flores de Los Ángeles
- Laboratorio de Diagnóstico Molecular, Universidad Popular Autónoma del Estado de Puebla (UPAEP), Puebla, Mexico
| | - Carlos Antonio Abella-Medrano
- Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Universidad Popular Autónoma del Estado de Puebla (UPAEP), Puebla, Mexico
| | | | - Héctor Aguirre-Alarcón
- Laboratorio de Biotecnología Médica y Farmacéutica, Facultad de Biotecnología, Universidad Popular y Autónoma del Estado de Puebla (UPAEP), Puebla, Mexico
| | - Nancy Bibiana Pérez-Silva
- Laboratorio de Diagnóstico Molecular, Universidad Popular Autónoma del Estado de Puebla (UPAEP), Puebla, Mexico
| | - Mario Solís-Hernández
- Comisión México Estados Unidos para la Prevención de la Fiebre Aftosa y otras Enfermedades Exóticas de los Animales del Servicio Nacional de Sanidad, Inocuidad y Calidad Agroalimentaria, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Roberto Navarro-López
- Comisión México Estados Unidos para la Prevención de la Fiebre Aftosa y otras Enfermedades Exóticas de los Animales del Servicio Nacional de Sanidad, Inocuidad y Calidad Agroalimentaria, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - A Alonso Aguirre
- Warner College of Natural Resources, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA
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Nielsen SS, Alvarez J, Bicout DJ, Calistri P, Canali E, Drewe JA, Garin‐Bastuji B, Gonzales Rojas JL, Gortázar C, Herskin M, Michel V, Miranda Chueca MÁ, Padalino B, Pasquali P, Roberts HC, Spoolder H, Velarde A, Viltrop A, Winckler C, Adlhoch C, Aznar I, Baldinelli F, Boklund A, Broglia A, Gerhards N, Mur L, Nannapaneni P, Ståhl K. SARS-CoV-2 in animals: susceptibility of animal species, risk for animal and public health, monitoring, prevention and control. EFSA J 2023; 21:e07822. [PMID: 36860662 PMCID: PMC9968901 DOI: 10.2903/j.efsa.2023.7822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The epidemiological situation of SARS-CoV-2 in humans and animals is continually evolving. To date, animal species known to transmit SARS-CoV-2 are American mink, raccoon dog, cat, ferret, hamster, house mouse, Egyptian fruit bat, deer mouse and white-tailed deer. Among farmed animals, American mink have the highest likelihood to become infected from humans or animals and further transmit SARS-CoV-2. In the EU, 44 outbreaks were reported in 2021 in mink farms in seven MSs, while only six in 2022 in two MSs, thus representing a decreasing trend. The introduction of SARS-CoV-2 into mink farms is usually via infected humans; this can be controlled by systematically testing people entering farms and adequate biosecurity. The current most appropriate monitoring approach for mink is the outbreak confirmation based on suspicion, testing dead or clinically sick animals in case of increased mortality or positive farm personnel and the genomic surveillance of virus variants. The genomic analysis of SARS-CoV-2 showed mink-specific clusters with a potential to spill back into the human population. Among companion animals, cats, ferrets and hamsters are those at highest risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection, which most likely originates from an infected human, and which has no or very low impact on virus circulation in the human population. Among wild animals (including zoo animals), mostly carnivores, great apes and white-tailed deer have been reported to be naturally infected by SARS-CoV-2. In the EU, no cases of infected wildlife have been reported so far. Proper disposal of human waste is advised to reduce the risks of spill-over of SARS-CoV-2 to wildlife. Furthermore, contact with wildlife, especially if sick or dead, should be minimised. No specific monitoring for wildlife is recommended apart from testing hunter-harvested animals with clinical signs or found-dead. Bats should be monitored as a natural host of many coronaviruses.
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19
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SARS-ANI: a global open access dataset of reported SARS-CoV-2 events in animals. Sci Data 2022; 9:438. [PMID: 35871228 PMCID: PMC9308035 DOI: 10.1038/s41597-022-01543-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2022] [Accepted: 07/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The zoonotic origin of SARS-CoV-2, the etiological agent of COVID-19, is not yet fully resolved. Although natural infections in animals are reported in a wide range of species, large knowledge and data gaps remain regarding SARS-CoV-2 in animal hosts. We used two major health databases to extract unstructured data and generated a global dataset of SARS-CoV-2 events in animals. The dataset presents harmonized host names, integrates relevant epidemiological and clinical data on each event, and is readily usable for analytical purposes. We also share the code for technical and visual validation of the data and created a user-friendly dashboard for data exploration. Data on SARS-CoV-2 occurrence in animals is critical to adapting monitoring strategies, preventing the formation of animal reservoirs, and tailoring future human and animal vaccination programs. The FAIRness and analytical flexibility of the data will support research efforts on SARS-CoV-2 at the human-animal-environment interface. We intend to update this dataset weekly for at least one year and, through collaborations, to develop it further and expand its use. Measurement(s) | SARS-CoV-2 event in animal hosts | Technology Type(s) | Manual data collection from text sources | Factor Type(s) | ID • primary_source • archive_event_number • link_web • secondary_source • secondary_source_ID • secondary_source_web • host_com_orig • host_sci_orig • host_com_res • host_sci_res • host_colloq • host_sci_spec_res • family • epidemiological_unit • number_cases • number_susceptible • number_tested • number_deaths • age • sex • country_iso3 • country_name • subnational_administration • city • location_detail • date_confirmed • date_reported • date_published • related_to_other_entries • related_ID • test • sampling_type • test_2 • sampling_type_2 • test_3 • sampling_type_3 • negative_test • negative_sampling_type • negative_test_2 • negative_sampling_type_2 • reason_for_testing • symptoms • outcome • living_conditions • source_of_infection • variant • control_measures • original_source • link_original_source | Sample Characteristic - Organism | animal host(s) | Sample Characteristic - Environment | domestic • wild• captive• farmed | Sample Characteristic - Location | Global |
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20
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Lawton K, Keller SM, Barnum S, Arredondo-Lopez C, Spann K, Pusterla N. Seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 in 1186 Equids Presented to a Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital in California from 2020 to 2022. Viruses 2022; 14:v14112497. [PMID: 36423106 PMCID: PMC9696554 DOI: 10.3390/v14112497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2022] [Revised: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
While some companion animals have been shown to be susceptible to SARS-CoV-2, their role in the COVID-19 pandemic has remained poorly investigated. Equids are susceptible to SARS-CoV-2 based on the similarity of the human ACE-2 receptor and reports of infection. Clinical disease and prevalence factors associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection in equids have not yet been investigated. The aim of this study was to determine the seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 and selected prevalence factors in 1186 equids presented for various conditions to a Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital over a two-year period. Blood samples were tested for SARS-CoV-2 antibodies using an ELISA targeting the receptor binding domain (RBD) of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein. Further, selected prevalence factors (season, age, breed, sex, presenting complaint) were retrieved from the medical records. No information was available on whether the horses had come into contact with COVID-19-positive individuals. Among the study animals, 42/1186 (3.5%) horses had detectable SARS-CoV-2 antibodies. Amongst the prevalence factors investigated, only seasonality (spring) was associated with a greater frequency of seropositivity to SARS-CoV-2. Horses with medical and surgical complaints were more likely to test seropositive to SARS-CoV-2 compared to horses presented for routine health care procedures, suggesting more frequent and/or longer interactions with individuals with COVID-19. While horses can become infected with SARS-CoV-2 via the occasional spillover from COVID-19 individuals, clinical disease expression remains subclinical, making horses an unlikely contributor to the spread of SARS-CoV-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaila Lawton
- Department of Medicine and Epidemiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Stefan M. Keller
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Samantha Barnum
- Department of Medicine and Epidemiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Christina Arredondo-Lopez
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Kennedy Spann
- Department of Medicine and Epidemiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Nicola Pusterla
- Department of Medicine and Epidemiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA
- Correspondence:
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21
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Saied AA, Metwally AA. SARS-CoV-2 variants of concerns in animals: An unmonitored rising health threat. Virusdisease 2022; 33:466-476. [PMID: 36405954 PMCID: PMC9648878 DOI: 10.1007/s13337-022-00794-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2022] [Accepted: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent findings have highlighted the urgency for rapidly detecting and characterizing SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern in companion and wild animals. The significance of active surveillance and genomic investigation on these animals could pave the way for more understanding of the viral circulation and how the variants emerge. It enables us to predict the next viral challenges and prepare for or prevent these challenges. Horrible neglect of this issue could make the COVID-19 pandemic a continuous threat. Continuing to monitor the animal-origin SARS-CoV-2, and tailoring prevention and control measures to avoid large-scale community transmission in the future caused by the virus leaping from animals to humans, is essential. The reliance on only developing vaccines with ignoring this strategy could cost us many lives. Here, we discuss the most recent data about the transmissibility of SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern (VOCs) among animals and humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- AbdulRahman A. Saied
- National Food Safety Authority (NFSA), Aswan Branch, 81511 Aswan, Egypt
- Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, Aswan Office, 81511 Aswan, Egypt
| | - Asmaa A. Metwally
- Department of Surgery, Anesthesiology, and Radiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Aswan University, 81528 Aswan, Egypt
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22
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Agusi ER, Allendorf V, Eze EA, Asala O, Shittu I, Dietze K, Busch F, Globig A, Meseko CA. SARS-CoV-2 at the Human-Animal Interface: Implication for Global Public Health from an African Perspective. Viruses 2022; 14:v14112473. [PMID: 36366571 PMCID: PMC9696393 DOI: 10.3390/v14112473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Revised: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has become the most far-reaching public health crisis of modern times. Several efforts are underway to unravel its root cause as well as to proffer adequate preventive or inhibitive measures. Zoonotic spillover of the causative virus from an animal reservoir to the human population is being studied as the most likely event leading to the pandemic. Consequently, it is important to consider viral evolution and the process of spread within zoonotic anthropogenic transmission cycles as a global public health impact. The diverse routes of interspecies transmission of SARS-CoV-2 offer great potential for a future reservoir of pandemic viruses evolving from the current SARS-CoV-2 pandemic circulation. To mitigate possible future infectious disease outbreaks in Africa and elsewhere, there is an urgent need for adequate global surveillance, prevention, and control measures that must include a focus on known and novel emerging zoonotic pathogens through a one health approach. Human immunization efforts should be approached equally through the transfer of cutting-edge technology for vaccine manufacturing throughout the world to ensure global public health and one health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ebere Roseann Agusi
- National Veterinary Research Institute, Vom 930001, Nigeria
- Institute of International Animal Health/One Health, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, 17493 Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany
- Department of Microbiology, University of Nigeria Nsukka, Enugu 410001, Nigeria
| | - Valerie Allendorf
- Institute of International Animal Health/One Health, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, 17493 Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany
- Correspondence: (A.G.); (V.A.)
| | | | - Olayinka Asala
- National Veterinary Research Institute, Vom 930001, Nigeria
| | - Ismaila Shittu
- National Veterinary Research Institute, Vom 930001, Nigeria
| | - Klaas Dietze
- Institute of International Animal Health/One Health, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, 17493 Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany
| | - Frank Busch
- Institute of International Animal Health/One Health, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, 17493 Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany
| | - Anja Globig
- Institute of International Animal Health/One Health, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, 17493 Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany
- Correspondence: (A.G.); (V.A.)
| | - Clement Adebajo Meseko
- National Veterinary Research Institute, Vom 930001, Nigeria
- College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
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23
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Padilla-Blanco M, Vega S, Enjuanes L, Morey A, Lorenzo T, Marín C, Ivorra C, Maiques E, Rubio V, Rubio-Guerri C. Detection of SARS-CoV-2 in a dog with hemorrhagic diarrhea. BMC Vet Res 2022; 18:370. [PMID: 36224622 PMCID: PMC9554378 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-022-03453-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the causative agent of COVID-19, has infected several animal species, including dogs, presumably via human-to-animal transmission. Most infected dogs reported were asymptomatic, with low viral loads. However, in this case we detected SARS-CoV-2 in a dog from the North African coastal Spanish city of Ceuta presenting hemorrhagic diarrhea, a disease also reported earlier on in an infected dog from the USA. Case presentation In early January 2021, a West Highland Terrier pet dog from Ceuta (Spain) presented hemorrhagic diarrhea with negative tests for candidate microbial pathogens. Since the animal was in a household whose members suffered SARS-CoV-2 in December 2020, dog feces were analyzed for SARS-CoV-2, proving positive in a two-tube RT-PCR test, with confirmation by sequencing a 399-nucleotide region of the spike (S) gene. Furthermore, next-generation sequencing (NGS) covered > 90% SARS-CoV-2 genome sequence, allowing to classify it as variant B.1.177. Remarkably, the sequence revealed the Ile402Val substitution in the spike protein (S), of potential concern because it mapped in the receptor binding domain (RBD) that mediates virus interaction with the cell. NGS reads mapping to bacterial genomes showed that the dog fecal microbiome fitted best the characteristic microbiome of dog’s acute hemorrhagic diarrhea. Conclusion Our findings exemplify dog infection stemming from the human SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, providing nearly complete-genome sequencing of the virus, which is recognized as belonging to the B.1.177 variant, adding knowledge on variant circulation in a geographic region and period for which there was little viral variant characterization. A single amino acid substitution found in the S protein that could have been of concern is excluded to belong to this category given its rarity and intrinsic nature. The dog’s pathology suggests that SARS-CoV-2 could affect the gastrointestinal tract of the dog. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12917-022-03453-8.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miguel Padilla-Blanco
- Departamento de Farmacia, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Cardenal Herrera-CEU, 46113, Alfara del Patriarca, Valencia, Spain
| | - Santiago Vega
- Departamento de Producción y Sanidad Animal, Salud Pública Veterinaria y Ciencia y Tecnología de los Alimentos, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad Cardenal Herrera-CEU, 46115, Alfara del Patriarca, Valencia, Spain.
| | - Luis Enjuanes
- Centro Nacional de Biotecnología (CNB-CSIC), Campus de Cantoblanco, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, 28049, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Teresa Lorenzo
- Departamento de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Cardenal Herrera-CEU, Alfara del Patriarca, 46113, Madrid, Spain
| | - Clara Marín
- Departamento de Producción y Sanidad Animal, Salud Pública Veterinaria y Ciencia y Tecnología de los Alimentos, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad Cardenal Herrera-CEU, 46115, Alfara del Patriarca, Valencia, Spain
| | - Carmen Ivorra
- I+D+I Department, Sequencing Multiplex SL (I+D+I, Seqplexing), Parque Científico Universidad de Valencia, 46980, Paterna, Valencia, Spain
| | - Elisa Maiques
- Departamento de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Cardenal Herrera-CEU, Alfara del Patriarca, 46113, Madrid, Spain
| | - Vicente Rubio
- Instituto de Biomedicina de Valencia del Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (IBV-CSIC) and CIBERER-ISCIII, 46010, Valencia, Valencia, Spain.
| | - Consuelo Rubio-Guerri
- Departamento de Farmacia, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Cardenal Herrera-CEU, 46113, Alfara del Patriarca, Valencia, Spain.
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24
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Fernández‐Bastit L, Marfil S, Pradenas E, Valle R, Roca N, Rodon J, Pailler‐García L, Trinité B, Parera M, Noguera‐Julian M, Martorell J, Izquierdo‐Useros N, Carrillo J, Clotet B, Blanco J, Vergara‐Alert J, Segalés J. Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection and humoral responses against different variants of concern in domestic pet animals and stray cats from North-Eastern Spain. Transbound Emerg Dis 2022; 69:3518-3529. [PMID: 36167932 PMCID: PMC9538463 DOI: 10.1111/tbed.14714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2022] [Revised: 09/15/2022] [Accepted: 09/21/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the causative agent of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic in humans, is able to infect several domestic, captive and wildlife animal species. Since reverse zoonotic transmission to pets has been demonstrated, it is crucial to determine their role in the epidemiology of the disease to prevent further spillover events and major spread of SARS-CoV-2. In the present study, we determined the presence of virus and the seroprevalence to SARS-CoV-2, as well as the levels of neutralizing antibodies (nAbs) against several variants of concern (VOCs) in pets (cats, dogs and ferrets) and stray cats from North-Eastern of Spain. We confirmed that cats and dogs can be infected by different VOCs of SARS-CoV-2 and, together with ferrets, are able to develop nAbs against the ancestral (B.1), Alpha (B.1.1.7), Beta (B.1.315), Delta (B.1.617.2) and Omicron (BA.1) variants, with lower titres against the latest in dogs and cats, but not in ferrets. Although the prevalence of active SARS-CoV-2 infection measured as direct viral RNA detection was low (0.3%), presence of nAbs in pets living in COVID-19-positive households was relatively high (close to 25% in cats, 10% in dogs and 40% in ferrets). It is essential to continue monitoring SARS-CoV-2 infections in these animals due to their frequent contact with human populations, and we cannot discard the probability of a higher animal susceptibility to new potential SARS-CoV-2 VOCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leira Fernández‐Bastit
- Unitat mixta d'Investigació IRTA‐UAB en Sanitat Animal. Centre de Recerca en Sanitat Animal (CReSA)Campus de la Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB)BellaterraCatalonia08193Spain,IRTA. Programa de Sanitat Animal. Centre de Recerca en Sanitat Animal (CReSA)Campus de la Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB)BellaterraCatalonia08193Spain
| | | | | | - Rosa Valle
- Unitat mixta d'Investigació IRTA‐UAB en Sanitat Animal. Centre de Recerca en Sanitat Animal (CReSA)Campus de la Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB)BellaterraCatalonia08193Spain,IRTA. Programa de Sanitat Animal. Centre de Recerca en Sanitat Animal (CReSA)Campus de la Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB)BellaterraCatalonia08193Spain
| | - Núria Roca
- Unitat mixta d'Investigació IRTA‐UAB en Sanitat Animal. Centre de Recerca en Sanitat Animal (CReSA)Campus de la Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB)BellaterraCatalonia08193Spain,IRTA. Programa de Sanitat Animal. Centre de Recerca en Sanitat Animal (CReSA)Campus de la Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB)BellaterraCatalonia08193Spain
| | - Jordi Rodon
- Unitat mixta d'Investigació IRTA‐UAB en Sanitat Animal. Centre de Recerca en Sanitat Animal (CReSA)Campus de la Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB)BellaterraCatalonia08193Spain,IRTA. Programa de Sanitat Animal. Centre de Recerca en Sanitat Animal (CReSA)Campus de la Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB)BellaterraCatalonia08193Spain
| | - Lola Pailler‐García
- Unitat mixta d'Investigació IRTA‐UAB en Sanitat Animal. Centre de Recerca en Sanitat Animal (CReSA)Campus de la Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB)BellaterraCatalonia08193Spain,IRTA. Programa de Sanitat Animal. Centre de Recerca en Sanitat Animal (CReSA)Campus de la Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB)BellaterraCatalonia08193Spain
| | | | - Mariona Parera
- IrsiCaixa AIDS Research InstituteBadalona08916Spain,Infectious Diseases and Immunity, Faculty of MedicineUniversity of Vic‐Central University of Catalonia (UVic‐UCC)Barcelona08500Spain
| | - Marc Noguera‐Julian
- IrsiCaixa AIDS Research InstituteBadalona08916Spain,Infectious Diseases and Immunity, Faculty of MedicineUniversity of Vic‐Central University of Catalonia (UVic‐UCC)Barcelona08500Spain,Infectious Disease Networking Biomedical Research Center (CIBERINFEC)Carlos III Health InstituteMadridSpain
| | - Jaume Martorell
- Departament de Medicina i Cirugia AnimalsUniversitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB)Spain
| | - Nuria Izquierdo‐Useros
- IrsiCaixa AIDS Research InstituteBadalona08916Spain,Infectious Disease Networking Biomedical Research Center (CIBERINFEC)Carlos III Health InstituteMadridSpain,Germans Trias i Pujol Research Institute (IGTP)Can Ruti CampusBadalona08916Spain
| | - Jorge Carrillo
- IrsiCaixa AIDS Research InstituteBadalona08916Spain,Infectious Disease Networking Biomedical Research Center (CIBERINFEC)Carlos III Health InstituteMadridSpain,Germans Trias i Pujol Research Institute (IGTP)Can Ruti CampusBadalona08916Spain
| | - Bonaventura Clotet
- IrsiCaixa AIDS Research InstituteBadalona08916Spain,Infectious Diseases and Immunity, Faculty of MedicineUniversity of Vic‐Central University of Catalonia (UVic‐UCC)Barcelona08500Spain,Lluita contra la SIDA FoundationHospital Universitari Germans Trias i PujolBadalona08916Spain
| | - Julià Blanco
- IrsiCaixa AIDS Research InstituteBadalona08916Spain,Infectious Diseases and Immunity, Faculty of MedicineUniversity of Vic‐Central University of Catalonia (UVic‐UCC)Barcelona08500Spain,Infectious Disease Networking Biomedical Research Center (CIBERINFEC)Carlos III Health InstituteMadridSpain,Germans Trias i Pujol Research Institute (IGTP)Can Ruti CampusBadalona08916Spain
| | - Júlia Vergara‐Alert
- Unitat mixta d'Investigació IRTA‐UAB en Sanitat Animal. Centre de Recerca en Sanitat Animal (CReSA)Campus de la Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB)BellaterraCatalonia08193Spain,IRTA. Programa de Sanitat Animal. Centre de Recerca en Sanitat Animal (CReSA)Campus de la Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB)BellaterraCatalonia08193Spain
| | - Joaquim Segalés
- Unitat mixta d'Investigació IRTA‐UAB en Sanitat Animal. Centre de Recerca en Sanitat Animal (CReSA)Campus de la Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB)BellaterraCatalonia08193Spain,Departament de Sanitat i Anatomia Animals, Facultat de VeterinàriaUniversitat Autònoma de BarcelonaCerdanyola del Vallès08193Spain
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25
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Lean FZX, Priestnall SL, Vitores AG, Suárez-Bonnet A, Brookes SM, Núñez A. Elevated angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) expression in cats with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Res Vet Sci 2022; 152:564-568. [PMID: 36183613 PMCID: PMC9522311 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2022.09.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2022] [Revised: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) is an enzyme within the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system that plays a role in regulating blood pressure. However, it is also a cellular receptor for infection with SARS coronaviruses. Although most cats develop subclinical or mild disease following infection with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) acquired from human patients, a previous study has suggested hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a potential risk factor for the development of severe disease in the cat. Herein we investigate the ACE2 protein expression in the lung, heart, and kidney from a small subset of cats with (n = 10) and without HCM (n = 10) by immunohistochemistry. The abundance and intensity of ACE2 expression is slightly elevated in alveoli (p = 0.09; 0.07, respectively) and bronchioles (p = 0.095; 0.37, respectively). However, statistically elevated abundance and intensity of ACE-2 expression was only evident in the heart of cats with HCM (p = 0.032; p = 0.011, respectively). Further investigation did not demonstrate a statistical correlation between the ACE2 expression in the heart in relation to the heart weight to body weight ratio, and the ventricular wall ratio. Current findings suggest an overexpression of ACE2 in HCM cases but follow up study is warranted to understand the pathophysiological process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabian Z X Lean
- Department of Pathology and Animal Sciences, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), Addlestone, Surrey, UK.
| | - Simon L Priestnall
- Department of Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, North Mymms, UK
| | - Ana Gómez Vitores
- Department of Pathology and Animal Sciences, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), Addlestone, Surrey, UK
| | - Alejandro Suárez-Bonnet
- Department of Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, North Mymms, UK
| | | | - Alejandro Núñez
- Department of Pathology and Animal Sciences, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), Addlestone, Surrey, UK
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26
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Han J, He S, Shao W, Wang C, Qiao L, Zhang J, Yang L. Municipal solid waste, an overlooked route of transmission for the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2: a review. ENVIRONMENTAL CHEMISTRY LETTERS 2022; 21:81-95. [PMID: 36124224 PMCID: PMC9476438 DOI: 10.1007/s10311-022-01512-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2022] [Accepted: 08/16/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Municipal solid waste could potentially transmit human pathogens during the collection, transport, handling, and disposal of waste. Workers and residents living in the vicinity of municipal solid waste collection or disposal sites are particularly susceptible, especially unprotected workers and waste pickers. Recent evidence suggests that municipal solid waste-mediated transmission can spread the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) to humans. Such risks, however, have received little attention from public health authorities so far and may present an under-investigated transmission route for SARS-CoV-2 and other infectious agents during pandemics. In this review, we provide a retrospective analysis of the challenges, practices, and policies on municipal solid waste management during the current pandemic, and scrutinize the recent case reports on the municipal solid waste-mediated transmission of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). We found abrupt changes in quantity and composition of municipal solid wastes during the COVID-19. We detail pathways of exposure to SARS-CoV-2 and other pathogens carried on municipal solid wastes. We disclose evidence of pathogenic transmission by municipal solid waste to humans and animals. Assessments of current policies, gaps, and voluntary actions taken on municipal solid waste handling and disposal in the current pandemic are presented. We propose risk mitigation strategies and research priorities to alleviate the risk for humans and vectors exposed to municipal solid wastes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Han
- School of Human Settlements and Civil Engineering, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, 710049 People’s Republic of China
| | - Shanshan He
- School of Human Settlements and Civil Engineering, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, 710049 People’s Republic of China
| | - Wenyuan Shao
- School of Life Sciences and Technology, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, 710049 People’s Republic of China
| | - Chaoqi Wang
- School of Human Settlements and Civil Engineering, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, 710049 People’s Republic of China
| | - Longkai Qiao
- School of Human Settlements and Civil Engineering, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, 710049 People’s Republic of China
| | - Jiaqi Zhang
- School of Human Settlements and Civil Engineering, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, 710049 People’s Republic of China
| | - Ling Yang
- School of Engineering and Built Environment, Griffith University, Nathan, QLD 4111 Australia
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Sikkema RS, Begeman L, Janssen R, Wolters WJ, Geurtsvankessel C, de Bruin E, Hakze‐van der Honing RW, Eblé P, van der Poel WHM, van den Brand JMA, Slaterus R, La Haye M, Koopmans MP, Velkers F, Kuiken T. Risks of SARS-CoV-2 transmission between free-ranging animals and captive mink in the Netherlands. Transbound Emerg Dis 2022; 69:3339-3349. [PMID: 35988158 PMCID: PMC9538022 DOI: 10.1111/tbed.14686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2022] [Revised: 08/16/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
In the Netherlands, 69 of the 126 (55%) mink farms in total became infected with SARS-CoV-2 in 2020. Despite strict biosecurity measures and extensive epidemiological investigations, the main transmission route remained unclear. A better understanding of SARS-CoV-2 transmission between mink farms is of relevance for countries where mink farming is still common practice and can be used as a case study to improve future emerging disease preparedness. We assessed whether SARS-CoV-2 spilled over from mink to free-ranging animals, and whether free-ranging animals may have played a role in farm-to-farm transmission in the Netherlands. The study encompassed farm visits, farm questionnaires, expert workshops and SARS-CoV-2 RNA and antibody testing of samples from target animal species (bats, birds and free-ranging carnivores). In this study, we show that the open housing system of mink allowed access to birds, bats and most free-ranging carnivores, and that direct and indirect contact with mink was likely after entry, especially for free-ranging carnivores and birds. This allowed SARS-CoV-2 exposure to animals entering the mink farm, and subsequent infection or mechanical carriage by the target animal species. Moreover, mink can escape farms in some cases, and two SARS-CoV-2-positive mink were found outside farm premises. No other SARS-CoV-2-RNA-positive free-ranging animals were detected, suggesting there was no abundant circulation in the species tested during the study period. To investigate previous SARS-CoV-2 infections, SARS-CoV-2 antibody detection using lung extracts of carcasses was set up and validated. One tested beech marten did have SARS-CoV-2 antibodies, but the closest SARS-CoV-2-infected mink farm was outside of its home range, making infection at a mink farm unlikely. Knowing that virus exchange between different species and the formation of animal reservoirs affects SARS-CoV-2 evolution, continued vigilance and monitoring of mink farms and surrounding wildlife remains vital.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Wendy J. Wolters
- Division Farm Animal Health, Department Population Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary MedicineUtrecht UniversityUtrechtThe Netherlands
| | | | - Erwin de Bruin
- Viroscience, ErasmusMCRotterdamThe Netherlands,Division of Pathology, Department of Biomedical Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary MedicineUtrecht UniversityUtrechtThe Netherlands
| | | | - Phaedra Eblé
- Wageningen Bioveterinary ResearchLelystadThe Netherlands
| | | | - Judith M. A. van den Brand
- Division of Pathology, Department of Biomedical Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary MedicineUtrecht UniversityUtrechtThe Netherlands,Dutch Wildlife Health CentreUtrecht UniversityThe Netherlands
| | - Roy Slaterus
- Sovon, Dutch Centre for Field OrnithologyNijmegenThe Netherlands
| | | | | | - Francisca Velkers
- Division Farm Animal Health, Department Population Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary MedicineUtrecht UniversityUtrechtThe Netherlands
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28
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Islam A, Ferdous J, Islam S, Sayeed MA, Rahman MK, Saha O, Hassan MM, Shirin T. Transmission dynamics and susceptibility patterns of SARS-CoV-2 in domestic, farmed and wild animals: Sustainable One Health surveillance for conservation and public health to prevent future epidemics and pandemics. Transbound Emerg Dis 2022; 69:2523-2543. [PMID: 34694705 PMCID: PMC8662162 DOI: 10.1111/tbed.14356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2021] [Revised: 10/14/2021] [Accepted: 10/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The exact origin of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and source of introduction into humans has not been established yet, though it might be originated from animals. Therefore, we conducted a study to understand the putative reservoirs, transmission dynamics, and susceptibility patterns of SARS-CoV-2 in animals. Rhinolophus bats are presumed to be natural progenitors of SARS-CoV-2-related viruses. Initially, pangolin was thought to be the source of spillover to humans, but they might be infected by human or other animal species. So, the virus spillover pathways to humans remain unknown. Human-to-animal transmission has been testified in pet, farmed, zoo and free-ranging wild animals. Infected animals can transmit the virus to other animals in natural settings like mink-to-mink and mink-to-cat transmission. Animal-to-human transmission is not a persistent pathway, while mink-to-human transmission continues to be illuminated. Multiple companions and captive wild animals were infected by an emerging alpha variant of concern (B.1.1.7 lineage) whereas Asiatic lions were infected by delta variant, (B.1.617.2). To date, multiple animal species - cat, ferrets, non-human primates, hamsters and bats - showed high susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2 in the experimental condition, while swine, poultry, cattle showed no susceptibility. The founding of SARS-CoV-2 in wild animal reservoirs can confront the control of the virus in humans and might carry a risk to the welfare and conservation of wildlife as well. We suggest vaccinating pets and captive animals to stop spillovers and spillback events. We recommend sustainable One Health surveillance at the animal-human-environmental interface to detect and prevent future epidemics and pandemics by Disease X.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ariful Islam
- EcoHealth AllianceNew YorkUnited States
- Centre for Integrative Ecology, School of Life and Environmental ScienceDeakin UniversityVictoriaAustralia
- Institute of EpidemiologyDisease Control and Research (IEDCR)DhakaBangladesh
| | - Jinnat Ferdous
- EcoHealth AllianceNew YorkUnited States
- Institute of EpidemiologyDisease Control and Research (IEDCR)DhakaBangladesh
| | - Shariful Islam
- EcoHealth AllianceNew YorkUnited States
- Institute of EpidemiologyDisease Control and Research (IEDCR)DhakaBangladesh
| | - Md. Abu Sayeed
- EcoHealth AllianceNew YorkUnited States
- Institute of EpidemiologyDisease Control and Research (IEDCR)DhakaBangladesh
| | - Md. Kaisar Rahman
- EcoHealth AllianceNew YorkUnited States
- Institute of EpidemiologyDisease Control and Research (IEDCR)DhakaBangladesh
| | - Otun Saha
- EcoHealth AllianceNew YorkUnited States
- Institute of EpidemiologyDisease Control and Research (IEDCR)DhakaBangladesh
- Department of MicrobiologyUniversity of DhakaDhakaBangladesh
| | - Mohammad Mahmudul Hassan
- Faculty of Veterinary MedicineChattogram Veterinary and Animal Sciences UniversityChattogramBangladesh
| | - Tahmina Shirin
- Institute of EpidemiologyDisease Control and Research (IEDCR)DhakaBangladesh
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Kaushik R, Kumar N, Zhang KYJ, Srivastava P, Bhatia S, Malik YS. A novel structure-based approach for identification of vertebrate susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2: Implications for future surveillance programmes. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2022; 212:113303. [PMID: 35460633 PMCID: PMC9020514 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2022.113303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2021] [Revised: 03/09/2022] [Accepted: 04/09/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Understanding the origin of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has been a highly debatable and unresolved issue for scientific communities all over the world. Understanding the mechanism of virus entry to the host cells is crucial to deciphering the susceptibility profiles of animal species to SARS-CoV-2. The interaction of SARS-CoV-2 ligands (receptor-binding domain on spike protein) with its host cell receptor, angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), is a critical determinant of host range and cross-species transmission. In this study, we developed and implemented a rigorous computational approach for predicting binding affinity between 299 ACE2 orthologs from diverse vertebrate species and the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein. The findings show that the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein can bind to a wide range of vertebrate species carrying evolutionary divergent ACE2, implying a broad host range at the virus entry level, which may contribute to cross-species transmission and further viral evolution. Furthermore, the current study facilitated the identification of genetic determinants that may differentiate susceptible from resistant host species based on the conservation of ACE2-spike protein interacting residues in vertebrate host species known to facilitate SARS-CoV-2 infection; however, these genetic determinants warrant in vivo experimental confirmation. The molecular interactions associated with varied binding affinity of distinct ACE2 isoforms in a specific bat species were identified using protein structure analysis, implying the existence of diversified bat species' susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2. The current study's findings highlight the importance of intensive surveillance programmes aimed at identifying susceptible hosts, especially those with the potential to transmit zoonotic pathogens, in order to prevent future outbreaks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rahul Kaushik
- Laboratory for Structural Bioinformatics, Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, RIKEN, 1-7-22 Suehiro, Yokohama, Kanagawa, 230-0045, Japan
| | - Naveen Kumar
- Zoonotic Diseases Group, ICAR- National Institute of High Security Animal Diseases, Bhopal, 462022, India
| | - Kam Y J Zhang
- Laboratory for Structural Bioinformatics, Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, RIKEN, 1-7-22 Suehiro, Yokohama, Kanagawa, 230-0045, Japan
| | - Pratiksha Srivastava
- Zoonotic Diseases Group, ICAR- National Institute of High Security Animal Diseases, Bhopal, 462022, India
| | - Sandeep Bhatia
- Zoonotic Diseases Group, ICAR- National Institute of High Security Animal Diseases, Bhopal, 462022, India
| | - Yashpal Singh Malik
- College of Animal Biotechnology, Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Science University (GADVASU), Ludhiana, 141004, Punjab, India.
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Manifestation of SARS-CoV-2 Infections in Mink Related to Host-, Virus- and Farm-Associated Factors, The Netherlands 2020. Viruses 2022; 14:v14081754. [PMID: 36016375 PMCID: PMC9414453 DOI: 10.3390/v14081754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2022] [Revised: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 outbreaks on 69 Dutch mink farms in 2020 were studied to identify risk factors for virus introduction and transmission and to improve surveillance and containment measures. Clinical signs, laboratory test results, and epidemiological aspects were investigated, such as the date and reason of suspicion, housing, farm size and distances, human contact structure, biosecurity measures, and presence of wildlife, pets, pests, and manure management. On seven farms, extensive random sampling was performed, and age, coat color, sex, and clinical signs were recorded. Mild to severe respiratory signs and general diseases such as apathy, reduced feed intake, and increased mortality were detected on 62/69 farms. Throat swabs were more likely to result in virus detection than rectal swabs. Clinical signs differed between virus clusters and were more severe for dark-colored mink, males, and animals infected later during the year. Geographical clustering was found for one virus cluster. Shared personnel could explain some cases, but other transmission routes explaining farm-to-farm spread were not elucidated. An early warning surveillance system, strict biosecurity measures, and a (temporary) ban on mink farming and vaccinating animals and humans can contribute to reducing the risks of the virus spreading and acquisition of potential mutations relevant to human and animal health.
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No Evidence of SARS-CoV-2 Infection in Wild Mink (Mustela lutreola and Neogale vison) from Northern Spain during the First Two Years of Pandemic. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12151971. [PMID: 35953960 PMCID: PMC9367499 DOI: 10.3390/ani12151971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2022] [Revised: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) causing coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) is a betacoronavirus (β-CoV) closely related to Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS-CoV) and the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV), which have also caused severe outbreaks of disease in human populations. Human-to-animal transmission events during the COVID-19 pandemic have been documented in several countries. Different animal species have been proven to be susceptible to infection with SARS-CoV-2 both naturally and by experimental infection, including mustelids such as ferrets, otters, and American mink (Neogale vison). In this sense, infected farmed American mink develop respiratory signs associated with viral pneumonia. This study evaluates the presence of SARS-CoV-2 in European mink (Mustela lutreola) and American mink from Spain, by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) using the receptor binding domain (RBD) of Spike protein antigen in serum samples and/or by RT-qPCR assays in oropharyngeal and rectal swabs. From January 2020 to February 2022, a total of 162 animals (127 European mink and 35 American mink) with no evidence of SARS-CoV-2 infection were included in the study. Of the 126 serum samples analysed by serology, anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies were not detected in the mink included in this study. In the same way, SARS-CoV-2 RNA has not been detected in any of the 160 swabs samples analysed by RT-qPCR. This study shows the absence of the wild mink exposure to SARS-CoV-2 in a geographic area seriously affected by COVID-19. With these results, it can be considered that the probability that the virus is circulating in wild mink is low. With this, the risk of virus transmission to humans by this route is also considered improbable. Abstract The impact of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic on wildlife is largely unevaluated, and extended surveillance of animal species is needed to reach a consensus on the role of animals in the emergence and maintenance of SARS-CoV-2. This infection has been detected in farmed and domestic animals and wild animals, mainly in captivity. The interactions or shared resources with wildlife could represent a potential transmission pathway for the SARS-CoV-2 spill over to other wild species and could lead to health consequences or the establishment of new reservoirs in susceptible hosts. This study evaluated the presence of SARS-CoV-2 in European mink (Mustela lutreola) and American mink (Neogale vison) in Spain by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) using the receptor binding domain (RBD) of Spike antigen in serum samples and/or by RT-qPCR assays in oropharyngeal and rectal swabs. From January 2020 to February 2022, a total of 162 animals (127 European mink and 35 American mink) with no evidence of SARS-CoV-2 infection were included in the study. Antibodies against the SARS-CoV-2 were not found in the serum samples analysed (n = 126), nor was the virus amplified by RT-qPCR (n = 160 swabs). Our results suggest that the potential role of wild mink and the European mink bred in captivity and released to the wild as dispersers of SARS-CoV-2 is so far low. However, wildlife surveillance for early detection of human and animal risks should be continued. In this sense, epidemiological monitoring measures, including serology and molecular analysis, are necessary.
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An Updated Review on SARS-CoV-2 Infection in Animals. Viruses 2022; 14:v14071527. [PMID: 35891507 PMCID: PMC9323600 DOI: 10.3390/v14071527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2022] [Revised: 07/06/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic has lasted for two years and caused millions of infections and deaths in humans. Although the origin of SARS-CoV-2 infection in humans remains unknown, infection in animals has been frequently reported in varieties of animals all over the world. Both experimental and natural infections of SARS-CoV-2 in different animal species provide useful information on viral host range and pathogenicity. As the pandemic continues to evolve, SARS-CoV-2 infection in animals will be expanding. In this review, we summarized SARS-CoV-2 testing and infection in animals as well as SARS-CoV-2 strains and transmission in animals. Current data showed that at least 18 different animal species tested positive for SARS-CoV-2. These 18 animal species belong to pet, captive, farmed, and wild animals. Fifteen of the eighteen animal species were known to be positive for the Delta variant and ten animal species were infected with two different types of variants. Human-to-animal, animal-to-animal, and animal-to-human transmission events were suggested in different outbreaks involved in animal infection with SARS-CoV-2. Continued testing, immunization, and surveillance are warranted.
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Kim Y, Gaudreault NN, Meekins DA, Perera KD, Bold D, Trujillo JD, Morozov I, McDowell CD, Chang KO, Richt JA. Effects of Spike Mutations in SARS-CoV-2 Variants of Concern on Human or Animal ACE2-Mediated Virus Entry and Neutralization. Microbiol Spectr 2022; 10:e0178921. [PMID: 35638818 PMCID: PMC9241865 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.01789-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2021] [Accepted: 04/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is a zoonotic agent capable of infecting humans and a wide range of animal species. Over the duration of the pandemic, mutations in the SARS-CoV-2 spike (S) protein have arisen, culminating in the spread of several variants of concern (VOCs) with various degrees of altered virulence, transmissibility, and neutralizing antibody escape. In this study, we used pseudoviruses that express specific SARS-CoV-2 S protein substitutions and cell lines that express angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) from nine different animal species to gain insights into the effects of VOC mutations on viral entry and antibody neutralization capability. All animal ACE2 receptors tested, except mink, support viral cell entry for pseudoviruses expressing the ancestral prototype S at levels comparable to human ACE2. Most single S substitutions did not significantly change virus entry, although 614G and 484K resulted in a decreased efficiency. Conversely, combinatorial VOC substitutions in the S protein were associated with increased entry of pseudoviruses. Neutralizing titers in sera from various animal species were significantly reduced against pseudoviruses expressing the S proteins of Beta, Delta, or Omicron VOCs compared to the parental S protein. Especially, substitutions in the S protein of the Omicron variant significantly reduced the neutralizing titers of the sera. This study reveals important insights into the host range of SARS-CoV-2 and the effect of recently emergent S protein substitutions on viral entry, virus replication, and antibody-mediated viral neutralization. IMPORTANCE The ongoing coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), continues to have devastating impacts on global health and socioeconomics. The recent emergence of SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern, which contain mutations that can affect the virulence, transmission, and effectiveness of licensed vaccines and therapeutic antibodies, are currently becoming the common strains circulating in humans worldwide. In addition, SARS-CoV-2 has been shown to infect a wide variety of animal species, which could result in additional mutations of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. In this study, we investigate the effect of mutations present in SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern and determine the effects of these mutations on cell entry, virulence, and antibody neutralization activity in humans and a variety of animals that might be susceptible to SARS-CoV-2 infection. This information is essential to understand the effects of important SARS-CoV-2 mutations and to inform public policy to create better strategies to control the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunjeong Kim
- Department of Diagnostic Medicine/Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas, USA
| | - Natasha N. Gaudreault
- Department of Diagnostic Medicine/Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas, USA
| | - David A. Meekins
- Department of Diagnostic Medicine/Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas, USA
| | - Krishani D. Perera
- Department of Diagnostic Medicine/Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas, USA
| | - Dashzeveg Bold
- Department of Diagnostic Medicine/Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas, USA
| | - Jessie D. Trujillo
- Department of Diagnostic Medicine/Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas, USA
| | - Igor Morozov
- Department of Diagnostic Medicine/Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas, USA
| | - Chester D. McDowell
- Department of Diagnostic Medicine/Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas, USA
| | - Kyeong-Ok Chang
- Department of Diagnostic Medicine/Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas, USA
| | - Juergen A. Richt
- Department of Diagnostic Medicine/Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas, USA
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Clair V, Chan E, Paiero A, Fraser E, Gunvaldsen R, Newhouse E. One Health response to SARS-CoV-2-associated risk from mink farming in British Columbia, Canada, October 2020 to October 2021. CANADA COMMUNICABLE DISEASE REPORT = RELEVE DES MALADIES TRANSMISSIBLES AU CANADA 2022; 48:261-273. [PMID: 37333574 PMCID: PMC10274535 DOI: 10.14745/ccdr.v48i06a04] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Background Mink farms are susceptible to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) outbreaks and carry an associated risk of novel SARS-CoV-2 variant emergence and non-human reservoir creation. In Denmark, control measures were insufficient to prevent onward transmission of a mink-associated variant, contributing to the nation-wide culling of farmed mink. To date, British Columbia (BC) is the only Canadian province to report mink farm SARS-CoV-2 outbreaks. The objective of this study is to describe BC's One Health response to SARS-CoV-2-associated risk from mink farming, its outcomes, and insights from implementation. Methods The detection of two mink farm outbreaks in December 2020 catalyzed BC's risk mitigation response for both infected and uninfected farms, including the following: farm inspections and quarantines; Public Health Orders mandating mink mortality surveillance, enhanced personal protective equipment, biosafety measures and worker coronavirus disease 2019 vaccination, at-a-minimum weekly worker viral testing, and wildlife surveillance. Results A One Health approach enabled a timely, evidence-informed and coordinated response as the situation evolved, including the use of various legislative powers, consistent messaging and combined human and mink phylogenetic analysis. Ongoing mink and worker surveillance detected asymptomatic/subclinical infections and facilitated rapid isolation/quarantine to minimize onward transmission. Voluntary testing and mandatory vaccination for workers were acceptable to industry; enhanced personal protective equipment requirements were challenging. Regular farm inspections helped to assess and improve compliance. Conclusion British Columbia's One Health response reduced the risk of additional outbreaks, viral evolution and reservoir development; however, a third outbreak was detected in May 2021 despite implemented measures, and long-term sustainability of interventions proved challenging for both industry and governmental agencies involved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronic Clair
- British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, BC
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC
- Department of Family Practice, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC
| | - Elaine Chan
- British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, BC
- Canadian Field Epidemiology Program, Centre for Emergency Preparedness and Response, Public Health Agency of Canada, Ottawa, ON
| | | | - Erin Fraser
- British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, BC
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC
| | | | - Emily Newhouse
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC
- Fraser Health Authority, Surrey, BC
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Doliff R, Martens P. Cats and SARS-CoV-2: A Scoping Review. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:1413. [PMID: 35681877 PMCID: PMC9179433 DOI: 10.3390/ani12111413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2022] [Revised: 05/20/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, various animal species were found to be susceptible to SARS-CoV-2 infection. The close contact that exists between humans and cats warrants special attention to the role of this species. Therefore, a scoping review was performed to obtain a comprehensive overview of the existing literature, and to map key concepts, types of research, and possible gaps in the research. A systematic search of the databases PubMed, Google Scholar, and Scopus and the preprint servers medRxiv and bioRxiv was performed. After a two-step screening process, 27 peer-reviewed articles, 8 scientific communication items, and 2 unpublished pre-prints were included. The main themes discussed were susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2, induced immunity, prevalence of infection, manifestation of infection, interspecies transmission between humans and cats, and lastly, intraspecies transmission between cats. The main gaps in the research identified were a lack of large-scale studies, underrepresentation of stray, feral, and shelter cat populations, lack of investigation into cat-to-cat transmissions under non-experimental conditions, and the relation of cats to other animal species regarding SARS-CoV-2. Overall, cats seemingly play a limited role in the spread of SARS-CoV-2. While cats are susceptible to the virus and reverse zoonotic transmission from humans to cats happens regularly, there is currently no evidence of SARS-CoV-2 circulation among cats.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Pim Martens
- University College Venlo, Maastricht University, Nassaustraat 36, 5911 BV Venlo, The Netherlands;
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36
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COVID-19: A Veterinary and One Health Perspective. J Indian Inst Sci 2022; 102:689-709. [PMID: 35968231 PMCID: PMC9364302 DOI: 10.1007/s41745-022-00318-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2022] [Indexed: 10/30/2022]
Abstract
Interface with animals has been responsible for the occurrence of a major proportion of human diseases for the past several decades. Recent outbreaks of respiratory, haemorrhagic, encephalitic, arthropod-borne and other viral diseases have underlined the role of animals in the transmission of pathogens to humans. The on-going coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic is one among them and is thought to have originated from bats and jumped to humans through an intermediate animal host. Indeed, the aetiology, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), can infect and cause disease in cats, ferrets and minks, as well as be transmitted from one animal to another. The seriousness of the pandemic along with the zoonotic origin of the virus has been a red alert on the critical need for collaboration and cooperation among human and animal health professionals, as well as stakeholders from various other disciplines that study planetary health parameters and the well-being of the biosphere. It is therefore imminent that One Health principles are applied across the board for human infectious diseases so that we can be better prepared for future zoonotic disease outbreaks and pandemics.
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Kuhlmeier E, Chan T, Klaus J, Pineroli B, Geisser E, Hofmann-Lehmann R, Meli ML. A Pre- and Within-Pandemic Survey of SARS-CoV-2 RNA in Saliva Swabs from Stray Cats in Switzerland. Viruses 2022; 14:v14040681. [PMID: 35458411 PMCID: PMC9024816 DOI: 10.3390/v14040681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Revised: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Cats have been shown to be highly susceptible to SARS-CoV-2, and transmission within the species has been demonstrated experimentally. In cats undergoing natural SARS-CoV-2 infections, human-to-animal transmission was mostly suspected. It can be postulated that, in stray cats with no or only minimal contact with humans, SARS-CoV-2 may pose a minor risk. The current study investigated the prevalence of active SARS-CoV-2 infections in Swiss stray cats using quantitative reverse transcriptase real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). Saliva swabs from 1405 stray cats were collected in 14 Swiss cantons. The animals were sampled between February 2019 and February 2020 (pre-COVID-19 cohort: 523 cats) and between February 2020 and August 2021 (COVID-19 cohort: 882 cats). All the samples were tested by RT-qPCR, amplifying the envelope (E) gene and, in case of positive or inconclusive results, the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) gene of SARS-CoV-2. No SARS-CoV-2 viral RNA could be detected in any of the tested saliva swab samples. Our findings support the assumption that SARS-CoV-2 infections in stray cats are not highly prevalent in Switzerland. Nevertheless, the monitoring of stray cats and other susceptible animal species is necessary, since the “One Health” approach has been recognized as being essential to successfully fight the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evelyn Kuhlmeier
- Clinical Laboratory, Department of Clinical Diagnostics and Services, and Center for Clinical Studies, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 260, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland; (T.C.); (J.K.); (B.P.); (R.H.-L.); (M.L.M.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +41-79-869-4162
| | - Tatjana Chan
- Clinical Laboratory, Department of Clinical Diagnostics and Services, and Center for Clinical Studies, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 260, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland; (T.C.); (J.K.); (B.P.); (R.H.-L.); (M.L.M.)
| | - Julia Klaus
- Clinical Laboratory, Department of Clinical Diagnostics and Services, and Center for Clinical Studies, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 260, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland; (T.C.); (J.K.); (B.P.); (R.H.-L.); (M.L.M.)
| | - Benita Pineroli
- Clinical Laboratory, Department of Clinical Diagnostics and Services, and Center for Clinical Studies, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 260, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland; (T.C.); (J.K.); (B.P.); (R.H.-L.); (M.L.M.)
| | - Esther Geisser
- NetAP—Network for Animal Protection, Vogelsangstrasse 32, 8133 Esslingen, Switzerland;
| | - Regina Hofmann-Lehmann
- Clinical Laboratory, Department of Clinical Diagnostics and Services, and Center for Clinical Studies, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 260, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland; (T.C.); (J.K.); (B.P.); (R.H.-L.); (M.L.M.)
| | - Marina L. Meli
- Clinical Laboratory, Department of Clinical Diagnostics and Services, and Center for Clinical Studies, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 260, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland; (T.C.); (J.K.); (B.P.); (R.H.-L.); (M.L.M.)
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Ritter JM, Wilson TM, Gary JM, Seixas JN, Martines RB, Bhatnagar J, Bollweg BC, Lee E, Estetter L, Silva-Flannery L, Bullock HA, Towner JS, Cossaboom CM, Wendling NM, Amman BR, Harvey RR, Taylor D, Rettler H, Barton Behravesh C, Zaki SR. Histopathology and localization of SARS-CoV-2 and its host cell entry receptor ACE2 in tissues from naturally infected US-farmed mink ( Neovison vison). Vet Pathol 2022; 59:681-695. [PMID: 35229669 DOI: 10.1177/03009858221079665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) causes respiratory disease in mink similar to human COVID-19. We characterized the pathological findings in 72 mink from US farms with SARS-CoV-2 outbreaks, localized SARS-CoV-2 and its host cellular receptor angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) in mink respiratory tissues, and evaluated the utility of various test methods and specimens for SARS-CoV-2 detection in necropsy tissues. Of SARS-CoV-2-positive animals found dead, 74% had bronchiolitis and diffuse alveolar damage (DAD). Of euthanized SARS-CoV-2-positive animals, 72% had only mild interstitial pneumonia or minimal nonspecific lung changes (congestion, edema, macrophages); similar findings were seen in SARS-CoV-2-negative animals. Suppurative rhinitis, lymphocytic perivascular inflammation in the lungs, and lymphocytic infiltrates in other tissues were common in both SARS-CoV-2-positive and SARS-CoV-2-negative animals. In formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) upper respiratory tract (URT) specimens, conventional reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (cRT-PCR) was more sensitive than in situ hybridization (ISH) or immunohistochemistry (IHC) for detection of SARS-CoV-2. FFPE lung specimens yielded less detection of virus than FFPE URT specimens by all test methods. By IHC and ISH, virus localized extensively to epithelial cells in the nasal turbinates, and prominently within intact epithelium; olfactory mucosa was mostly spared. The SARS-CoV-2 receptor ACE2 was extensively detected by IHC within turbinate epithelium, with decreased detection in lower respiratory tract epithelium and alveolar macrophages. This study expands on the knowledge of the pathology and pathogenesis of natural SARS-CoV-2 infection in mink and supports their further investigation as a potential animal model of SARS-CoV-2 infection in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jana M Ritter
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA
| | - Tais M Wilson
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA
| | - Joy M Gary
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA.,StageBio, Frederick, MD
| | | | | | | | | | - Elizabeth Lee
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Brian R Amman
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA
| | | | - Dean Taylor
- Utah Department of Agriculture and Food, Salt Lake City, UT
| | | | | | - Sherif R Zaki
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA
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Shehata AA, Attia YA, Rahman MT, Basiouni S, El-Seedi HR, Azhar EI, Khafaga AF, Hafez HM. Diversity of Coronaviruses with Particular Attention to the Interspecies Transmission of SARS-CoV-2. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12030378. [PMID: 35158701 PMCID: PMC8833600 DOI: 10.3390/ani12030378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2022] [Revised: 01/30/2022] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Coronaviruses are a broad group of viruses that may infect a wide range of animals, including humans. Despite the fact that each coronavirus has a limited host range, frequent interspecies transmission of coronaviruses across diverse hosts has resulted in a complex ecology. The recently discovered SARS-CoV-2 virus is the clearest evidence of the danger of a global pandemic spreading. Natural infection with SARS-CoV-2 has been reported in a variety of domestic and wild animals, which may complicate the virus’s epidemiology and influence its development. In this review, we discussed the potential determinants of SARS-CoV-2 interspecies transmission. Additionally, despite the efforts that have been made to control this pandemic and to implement the One Health policy, several problems, such as the role of animals in SARS-CoV-2 evolution and the dynamics of interspecies transmission, are still unanswered. Abstract In December 2019, the outbreak of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) was reported in China with serious impacts on global health and economy that is still ongoing. Although interspecies transmission of coronaviruses is common and well documented, each coronavirus has a narrowly restricted host range. Coronaviruses utilize different receptors to mediate membrane fusion and replication in the cell cytoplasm. The interplay between the receptor-binding domain (RBD) of coronaviruses and their coevolution are determinants for host susceptibility. The recently emerged SARS-CoV-2 caused the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic and has also been reported in domestic and wild animals, raising the question about the responsibility of animals in virus evolution. Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic might also substantially have an impact on animal production for a long time. In the present review, we discussed the diversity of coronaviruses in animals and thus the diversity of their receptors. Moreover, the determinants of the susceptibility of SARS-CoV-2 in several animals, with special reference to the current evidence of SARS-CoV-2 in animals, were highlighted. Finally, we shed light on the urgent demand for the implementation of the One Health concept as a collaborative global approach to mitigate the threat for both humans and animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Awad A. Shehata
- Birds and Rabbit Medicine Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sadat City, Sadat City 32897, Egypt;
- Research and Development Section, PerNaturam GmbH, 56290 Gödenroth, Germany
| | - Youssef A. Attia
- Department of Agriculture, Faculty of Environmental Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, P.O. Box 80208, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia;
- The Strategic Center to Kingdom Vision Realization, King Abdulaziz University, P.O. Box 80200, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
- Animal and Poultry Production Department, Faculty of Agriculture, Damanhour University, Damanhour 22516, Egypt
| | - Md. Tanvir Rahman
- Department of Microbiology and Hygiene, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh 2202, Bangladesh;
| | - Shereen Basiouni
- Clinical Pathology Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Benha University, Benha 13736, Egypt;
| | - Hesham R. El-Seedi
- School of Food and Biological Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China;
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Menoufia University, Shebin El-Kom 32512, Egypt
| | - Esam I. Azhar
- Special Infectious Agents Unit—BSL3, King Fahd Medical Research Center and Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21362, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Asmaa F. Khafaga
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Alexandria University, Edfina 22758, Egypt;
| | - Hafez M. Hafez
- Institute of Poultry Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Free University of Berlin, 14163 Berlin, Germany
- Correspondence:
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Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has given the study of virus evolution and ecology new relevance. Although viruses were first identified more than a century ago, we likely know less about their diversity than that of any other biological entity. Most documented animal viruses have been sampled from just two phyla - the Chordata and the Arthropoda - with a strong bias towards viruses that infect humans or animals of economic and social importance, often in association with strong disease phenotypes. Fortunately, the recent development of unbiased metagenomic next-generation sequencing is providing a richer view of the animal virome and shedding new light on virus evolution. In this Review, we explore our changing understanding of the diversity, composition and evolution of the animal virome. We outline the factors that determine the phylogenetic diversity and genomic structure of animal viruses on evolutionary timescales and show how this impacts assessment of the risk of disease emergence in the short term. We also describe the ongoing challenges in metagenomic analysis and outline key themes for future research. A central question is how major events in the evolutionary history of animals, such as the origin of the vertebrates and periodic mass extinction events, have shaped the diversity and evolution of the viruses they carry.
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Islam A, Ferdous J, Sayeed MA, Islam S, Kaisar Rahman M, Abedin J, Saha O, Hassan MM, Shirin T. Spatial epidemiology and genetic diversity of SARS-CoV-2 and related coronaviruses in domestic and wild animals. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0260635. [PMID: 34910734 PMCID: PMC8673647 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0260635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2021] [Accepted: 11/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) showed susceptibility to diverse animal species. We conducted this study to understand the spatial epidemiology, genetic diversity, and statistically significant genetic similarity along with per-gene recombination events of SARS-CoV-2 and related viruses (SC2r-CoVs) in animals globally. We collected a number of different animal species infected with SARS-CoV-2 and its related viruses. Then, we retrieved genome sequences of SARS-CoV-2 and SC2r-CoVs from GISAID and NCBI GenBank for genomic and mutational analysis. Although the evolutionary origin of SARS-CoV-2 remains elusive, the diverse SC2r-CoV have been detected in multiple Rhinolophus bat species and in Malayan pangolin. To date, human-to-animal spillover events have been reported in cat, dog, tiger, lion, gorilla, leopard, ferret, puma, cougar, otter, and mink in 25 countries. Phylogeny and genetic recombination events of SC2r-CoVs showed higher similarity to the bat coronavirus RaTG13 and BANAL-103 for most of the genes and to some Malayan pangolin coronavirus (CoV) strains for the N protein from bats and pangolin showed close resemblance to SARS-CoV-2. The clustering of animal and human strains from the same geographical area has proved human-to-animal transmission of the virus. The Alpha, Delta and Mu-variant of SARS-CoV-2 was detected in dog, gorilla, lion, tiger, otter, and cat in the USA, India, Czech Republic, Belgium, and France with momentous genetic similarity with human SARS-CoV-2 sequences. The mink variant mutation (spike_Y453F) was detected in both humans and domestic cats. Moreover, the dog was affected mostly by clade O (66.7%), whereas cat and American mink were affected by clade GR (31.6 and 49.7%, respectively). The α-variant was detected as 2.6% in cat, 4.8% in dog, 14.3% in tiger, 66.7% in gorilla, and 77.3% in lion. The highest mutations observed in mink where the substitution of D614G in spike (95.2%) and P323L in NSP12 (95.2%) protein. In dog, cat, gorilla, lion, and tiger, Y505H and Y453F were the common mutations followed by Y145del, Y144del, and V70I in S protein. We recommend vaccine provision for pet and zoo animals to reduce the chance of transmission in animals. Besides, continuous epidemiological and genomic surveillance of coronaviruses in animal host is crucial to find out the immediate ancestor of SARS-CoV-2 and to prevent future CoVs threats to humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ariful Islam
- EcoHealth Alliance, New York, New York, United States of America
- Centre for Integrative Ecology, School of Life and Environmental Science, Deakin University, Victoria, Australia
- Institute of Epidemiology, Disease Control and Research (IEDCR), Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Jinnat Ferdous
- EcoHealth Alliance, New York, New York, United States of America
- Institute of Epidemiology, Disease Control and Research (IEDCR), Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Md. Abu Sayeed
- EcoHealth Alliance, New York, New York, United States of America
- Institute of Epidemiology, Disease Control and Research (IEDCR), Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Shariful Islam
- EcoHealth Alliance, New York, New York, United States of America
- Institute of Epidemiology, Disease Control and Research (IEDCR), Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Md. Kaisar Rahman
- EcoHealth Alliance, New York, New York, United States of America
- Institute of Epidemiology, Disease Control and Research (IEDCR), Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Josefina Abedin
- EcoHealth Alliance, New York, New York, United States of America
- Institute of Epidemiology, Disease Control and Research (IEDCR), Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Otun Saha
- EcoHealth Alliance, New York, New York, United States of America
- Institute of Epidemiology, Disease Control and Research (IEDCR), Dhaka, Bangladesh
- Department of Microbiology, University of Dhaka, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Mohammad Mahmudul Hassan
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chattogram Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Chattogram, Bangladesh
| | - Tahmina Shirin
- Institute of Epidemiology, Disease Control and Research (IEDCR), Dhaka, Bangladesh
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The SARS-CoV-2 Reproduction Number R 0 in Cats. Viruses 2021; 13:v13122480. [PMID: 34960749 PMCID: PMC8704225 DOI: 10.3390/v13122480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2021] [Revised: 11/26/2021] [Accepted: 12/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Domestic cats are susceptible to SARS-CoV-2 virus infection and given that they are in close contact with people, assessing the potential risk cats represent for the transmission and maintenance of SARS-CoV-2 is important. Assessing this risk implies quantifying transmission from humans-to-cats, from cats-to-cats and from cats-to-humans. Here we quantified the risk of cat-to-cat transmission by reviewing published literature describing transmission either experimentally or under natural conditions in infected households. Data from these studies were collated to quantify the SARS-CoV-2 reproduction number R0 among cats. The estimated R0 was significantly higher than one, hence cats could play a role in the transmission and maintenance of SARS-CoV-2. Questions that remain to be addressed are the risk of transmission from humans-to-cats and cats-to-humans. Further data on household transmission and data on virus levels in both the environment around infected cats and their exhaled air could be a step towards assessing these risks.
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Romito G, Bertaglia T, Bertaglia L, Decaro N, Uva A, Rugna G, Moreno A, Vincifori G, Dondi F, Diana A, Cipone M. Myocardial Injury Complicated by Systolic Dysfunction in a COVID-19-Positive Dog. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11123506. [PMID: 34944281 PMCID: PMC8697878 DOI: 10.3390/ani11123506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2021] [Revised: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the causative agent of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, is continuing to spread worldwide. As with many emerging infectious diseases, COVID-19 is of zoonotic origin, meaning that animals are susceptible to infection, including domestic pets such as dogs. Despite epidemiological surveys conducted in dogs living either in SARS-CoV-2-positive households or in geographic areas affected by COVID-19 steadily increasing, clinical reports aimed at characterising disease manifestation are currently scant in this species. This case report accurately describes the development of myocardial injury complicated by left ventricular systolic dysfunction in a SARS-CoV-2-positive dog. Interestingly, the clinical picture described herein closely resembles the cardiological compromise documented in SARS-CoV-2-positive humans and can therefore contribute to filling the current knowledge gap that exists between human and veterinary medicine concerning COVID-19. Abstract A six-year-old Cavalier King Charles spaniel was referred with a two-month history of severe exercise intolerance and syncope. Clinical signs had developed during a local wave of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) two weeks after its family members had manifested symptoms of this viral disease and their positivity to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) was confirmed. Cardiologic assessment documented myocardial injury complicated by systolic dysfunction. An extensive diagnostic work-up allowed us to rule out common causes of myocardial compromise, both infective and not. Accordingly, serological and molecular tests aimed at diagnosing SARS-CoV-2 infection were subsequently performed, especially in light of the dog’s peculiar history. Results of such tests, interpreted in the light of previous findings and current knowledge from human medicine, supported a presumptive diagnosis of COVID-19-associated myocardial injury, a clinical entity hitherto poorly described in this species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Romito
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum—University of Bologna, 40064 Bologna, Italy; (G.R.); (F.D.); (M.C.)
| | - Teresa Bertaglia
- Clinica Veterinaria Santa Teresa, 41032 Cavezzo, Italy; (T.B.); (L.B.)
| | - Luigi Bertaglia
- Clinica Veterinaria Santa Teresa, 41032 Cavezzo, Italy; (T.B.); (L.B.)
| | - Nicola Decaro
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari, 70010 Valenzano, Italy; (N.D.); (A.U.)
| | - Annamaria Uva
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari, 70010 Valenzano, Italy; (N.D.); (A.U.)
| | - Gianluca Rugna
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia e dell’Emilia Romagna “Bruno Ubertini”, 25124 Brescia, Italy; (G.R.); (A.M.)
| | - Ana Moreno
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia e dell’Emilia Romagna “Bruno Ubertini”, 25124 Brescia, Italy; (G.R.); (A.M.)
| | - Giacomo Vincifori
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale dell’Abruzzo e del Molise “G. Caporale”, 64100 Teramo, Italy;
| | - Francesco Dondi
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum—University of Bologna, 40064 Bologna, Italy; (G.R.); (F.D.); (M.C.)
| | - Alessia Diana
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum—University of Bologna, 40064 Bologna, Italy; (G.R.); (F.D.); (M.C.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Mario Cipone
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum—University of Bologna, 40064 Bologna, Italy; (G.R.); (F.D.); (M.C.)
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Teixeira AIP. SARS-CoV-2 in animals: what about the cat? Vet Q 2021; 41:226-227. [PMID: 34280074 PMCID: PMC8344248 DOI: 10.1080/01652176.2021.1958393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2021] [Revised: 07/02/2021] [Accepted: 07/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
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Adaptation, spread and transmission of SARS-CoV-2 in farmed minks and associated humans in the Netherlands. Nat Commun 2021; 12:6802. [PMID: 34815406 PMCID: PMC8611045 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-27096-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2021] [Accepted: 11/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic (April 2020), SARS-CoV-2 was detected in farmed minks and genomic sequencing was performed on mink farms and farm personnel. Here, we describe the outbreak and use sequence data with Bayesian phylodynamic methods to explore SARS-CoV-2 transmission in minks and humans on farms. High number of farm infections (68/126) in minks and farm workers (>50% of farms) were detected, with limited community spread. Three of five initial introductions of SARS-CoV-2 led to subsequent spread between mink farms until November 2020. Viruses belonging to the largest cluster acquired an amino acid substitution in the receptor binding domain of the Spike protein (position 486), evolved faster and spread longer and more widely. Movement of people and distance between farms were statistically significant predictors of virus dispersal between farms. Our study provides novel insights into SARS-CoV-2 transmission between mink farms and highlights the importance of combining genetic information with epidemiological information when investigating outbreaks at the animal-human interface. SARS-CoV-2 was detected in mink farms in the Netherlands in the first wave of the pandemic with evidence of human-to-mink and mink-to-human transmission. Here, the authors investigate this outbreak using phylodynamic analysis and show that personnel links and spatial proximity are predictors of transmission between farms.
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Lopes LR, de Mattos Cardillo G, de Lucca Pina NC, da Silva Junior AC, Kasinski SK, Bandiera-Paiva P. Prediction of SARS-CoV-2 hosts among Brazilian mammals and new coronavirus transmission chain using evolutionary bioinformatics. ANIMAL DISEASES 2021; 1:20. [PMID: 34778882 PMCID: PMC8475823 DOI: 10.1186/s44149-021-00020-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2021] [Accepted: 08/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV) and SARS-CoV-2 are thought to transmit to humans via wild mammals, especially bats. However, evidence for direct bat-to-human transmission is lacking. Involvement of intermediate hosts is considered a reason for SARS-CoV-2 transmission to humans and emergence of outbreak. Large biodiversity is found in tropical territories, such as Brazil. On the similar line, this study aimed to predict potential coronavirus hosts among Brazilian wild mammals based on angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) sequences using evolutionary bioinformatics. Cougar, maned wolf, and bush dogs were predicted as potential hosts for coronavirus. These indigenous carnivores are philogenetically closer to the known SARS-CoV/SARS-CoV-2 hosts and presented low ACE2 divergence. A new coronavirus transmission chain was developed in which white-tailed deer, a susceptible SARS-CoV-2 host, have the central position. Cougar play an important role because of its low divergent ACE2 level in deer and humans. The discovery of these potential coronavirus hosts will be useful for epidemiological surveillance and discovery of interventions that can contribute to break the transmission chain. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s44149-021-00020-w.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luciano Rodrigo Lopes
- Bioinformatics and Bio-Data Science Division - Health Informatics Department, Universidade Federal de São Paulo - UNIFESP, Rua Botucatu 862 - Prédio Leal Prado (térreo), CEP: 04023-062, Sao Paulo [SP], SP Brasil
| | - Giancarlo de Mattos Cardillo
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Universidade Federal de São Paulo - UNIFESP, Sao Paulo [SP], SP Brasil
| | - Natália Carvalho de Lucca Pina
- Bioinformatics and Bio-Data Science Division - Health Informatics Department, Universidade Federal de São Paulo - UNIFESP, Rua Botucatu 862 - Prédio Leal Prado (térreo), CEP: 04023-062, Sao Paulo [SP], SP Brasil
| | - Antonio Carlos da Silva Junior
- Bioinformatics and Bio-Data Science Division - Health Informatics Department, Universidade Federal de São Paulo - UNIFESP, Rua Botucatu 862 - Prédio Leal Prado (térreo), CEP: 04023-062, Sao Paulo [SP], SP Brasil
| | - Silvana Kertzer Kasinski
- Bioinformatics and Bio-Data Science Division - Health Informatics Department, Universidade Federal de São Paulo - UNIFESP, Rua Botucatu 862 - Prédio Leal Prado (térreo), CEP: 04023-062, Sao Paulo [SP], SP Brasil
| | - Paulo Bandiera-Paiva
- Bioinformatics and Bio-Data Science Division - Health Informatics Department, Universidade Federal de São Paulo - UNIFESP, Rua Botucatu 862 - Prédio Leal Prado (térreo), CEP: 04023-062, Sao Paulo [SP], SP Brasil
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Meekins DA, Gaudreault NN, Richt JA. Natural and Experimental SARS-CoV-2 Infection in Domestic and Wild Animals. Viruses 2021; 13:1993. [PMID: 34696423 PMCID: PMC8540328 DOI: 10.3390/v13101993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2021] [Revised: 09/22/2021] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 is the etiological agent responsible for the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, which continues to spread with devastating effects on global health and socioeconomics. The susceptibility of domestic and wild animal species to infection is a critical facet of SARS-CoV-2 ecology, since reverse zoonotic spillover events resulting in SARS-CoV-2 outbreaks in animal populations could result in the establishment of new virus reservoirs. Adaptive mutations in the virus to new animal species could also complicate ongoing mitigation strategies to combat SARS-CoV-2. In addition, animal species susceptible to SARS-CoV-2 infection are essential as standardized preclinical models for the development and efficacy testing of vaccines and therapeutics. In this review, we summarize the current findings regarding the susceptibility of different domestic and wild animal species to experimental SARS-CoV-2 infection and provide detailed descriptions of the clinical disease and transmissibility in these animals. In addition, we outline the documented natural infections in animals that have occurred at the human-animal interface. A comprehensive understanding of animal susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2 is crucial to inform public health, veterinary, and agricultural systems, and to guide environmental policies.
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Affiliation(s)
- David A. Meekins
- Department of Diagnostic Medicine/Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA; (D.A.M.); (N.N.G.)
- Center of Excellence for Emerging and Zoonotic Animal Diseases (CEEZAD), College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66502, USA
| | - Natasha N. Gaudreault
- Department of Diagnostic Medicine/Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA; (D.A.M.); (N.N.G.)
- Center of Excellence for Emerging and Zoonotic Animal Diseases (CEEZAD), College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66502, USA
| | - Juergen A. Richt
- Department of Diagnostic Medicine/Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA; (D.A.M.); (N.N.G.)
- Center of Excellence for Emerging and Zoonotic Animal Diseases (CEEZAD), College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66502, USA
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Sacchetto L, Chaves BA, Costa ER, de Menezes Medeiros AS, Gordo M, Araújo DB, Oliveira DBL, da Silva APB, Negri AF, Durigon EL, Hanley KA, Vasilakis N, de Lacerda MVG, Nogueira ML. Lack of Evidence of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) Spillover in Free-Living Neotropical Non-Human Primates, Brazil. Viruses 2021; 13:1933. [PMID: 34696363 PMCID: PMC8540180 DOI: 10.3390/v13101933] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2021] [Revised: 09/23/2021] [Accepted: 09/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the agent of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), is responsible for the worst pandemic of the 21st century. Like all human coronaviruses, SARS-CoV-2 originated in a wildlife reservoir, most likely from bats. As SARS-CoV-2 has spread across the globe in humans, it has spilled over to infect a variety of non-human animal species in domestic, farm, and zoo settings. Additionally, a broad range of species, including one neotropical monkey, have proven to be susceptible to experimental infection with SARS-CoV-2. Together, these findings raise the specter of establishment of novel enzootic cycles of SARS-CoV-2. To assess the potential exposure of free-living non-human primates to SARS-CoV-2, we sampled 60 neotropical monkeys living in proximity to Manaus and São José do Rio Preto, two hotspots for COVID-19 in Brazil. Our molecular and serological tests detected no evidence of SAR-CoV-2 infection among these populations. While this result is reassuring, sustained surveillance efforts of wildlife living in close association with human populations is warranted, given the stochastic nature of spillover events and the enormous implications of SARS-CoV-2 spillover for human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lívia Sacchetto
- Laboratório de Pesquisas em Virologia, Departamento de Doenças Dermatológicas, Infecciosas e Parasitárias, Faculdade de Medicina de São José do Rio Preto, São José do Rio Preto 15090-000, Brazil;
| | - Bárbara Aparecida Chaves
- Instituto de Pesquisas Clínicas Carlos Borborema, Fundação de Medicina Tropical Doutor Heitor Vieria Dourado, Manaus 69040-000, Brazil; (B.A.C.); (E.R.C.); (A.S.d.M.M.)
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Medicina Tropical, Universidade do Estado do Amazonas, Manaus 69040-000, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Amazonas, Manaus 69020-160, Brazil
| | - Edson Rodrigues Costa
- Instituto de Pesquisas Clínicas Carlos Borborema, Fundação de Medicina Tropical Doutor Heitor Vieria Dourado, Manaus 69040-000, Brazil; (B.A.C.); (E.R.C.); (A.S.d.M.M.)
| | - Aline Souza de Menezes Medeiros
- Instituto de Pesquisas Clínicas Carlos Borborema, Fundação de Medicina Tropical Doutor Heitor Vieria Dourado, Manaus 69040-000, Brazil; (B.A.C.); (E.R.C.); (A.S.d.M.M.)
| | - Marcelo Gordo
- Laboratório de Biologia da Conservação, Projeto Sauim-de-Coleira, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal do Amazonas, PPGZOO, PPGCASA, CAPES (Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior), Manaus 69080-900, Brazil;
| | - Danielle Bastos Araújo
- Departamento de Microbiologia, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-000, Brazil; (D.B.A.); (D.B.L.O.); (E.L.D.)
- Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, São Paulo 05652-900, Brazil
| | - Danielle Bruna Leal Oliveira
- Departamento de Microbiologia, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-000, Brazil; (D.B.A.); (D.B.L.O.); (E.L.D.)
- Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, São Paulo 05652-900, Brazil
- Centro de Inovação e Desenvolvimento, Instituto Butantã, São Paulo 05503-900, Brazil
| | - Ana Paula Betaressi da Silva
- Departamento de Vigilância Epidemiológica de São José do Rio Preto, São José do Rio Preto 15084-010, Brazil; (A.P.B.d.S.); (A.F.N.)
| | - Andréia Francesli Negri
- Departamento de Vigilância Epidemiológica de São José do Rio Preto, São José do Rio Preto 15084-010, Brazil; (A.P.B.d.S.); (A.F.N.)
| | - Edison Luiz Durigon
- Departamento de Microbiologia, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-000, Brazil; (D.B.A.); (D.B.L.O.); (E.L.D.)
- Plataforma Científica Pasteur, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-020, Brazil
| | - Kathryn A. Hanley
- Department of Biology, New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, NM 88003, USA;
| | - Nikos Vasilakis
- Department of Pathology, The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA;
- Sealy Center for Vector-Borne and Zoonotic Diseases, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA
- Center for Biodefense and Emerging Infectious Diseases, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA
- Center for Tropical Diseases, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA
- Institute for Human Infection and Immunity, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA
| | - Marcus Vinícius Guimarães de Lacerda
- Instituto de Pesquisas Clínicas Carlos Borborema, Fundação de Medicina Tropical Doutor Heitor Vieria Dourado, Manaus 69040-000, Brazil; (B.A.C.); (E.R.C.); (A.S.d.M.M.)
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Medicina Tropical, Universidade do Estado do Amazonas, Manaus 69040-000, Brazil
- Instituto Leônidas e Maria Deane, Fiocruz, Manaus 69057-070, Brazil
| | - Maurício Lacerda Nogueira
- Laboratório de Pesquisas em Virologia, Departamento de Doenças Dermatológicas, Infecciosas e Parasitárias, Faculdade de Medicina de São José do Rio Preto, São José do Rio Preto 15090-000, Brazil;
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Islam A, Ferdous J, Islam S, Sayeed MA, Dutta Choudhury S, Saha O, Hassan MM, Shirin T. Evolutionary Dynamics and Epidemiology of Endemic and Emerging Coronaviruses in Humans, Domestic Animals, and Wildlife. Viruses 2021; 13:1908. [PMID: 34696338 PMCID: PMC8537103 DOI: 10.3390/v13101908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2021] [Revised: 09/12/2021] [Accepted: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Diverse coronavirus (CoV) strains can infect both humans and animals and produce various diseases. CoVs have caused three epidemics and pandemics in the last two decades, and caused a severe impact on public health and the global economy. Therefore, it is of utmost importance to understand the emergence and evolution of endemic and emerging CoV diversity in humans and animals. For diverse bird species, the Infectious Bronchitis Virus is a significant one, whereas feline enteric and canine coronavirus, recombined to produce feline infectious peritonitis virus, infects wild cats. Bovine and canine CoVs have ancestral relationships, while porcine CoVs, especially SADS-CoV, can cross species barriers. Bats are considered as the natural host of diverse strains of alpha and beta coronaviruses. Though MERS-CoV is significant for both camels and humans, humans are nonetheless affected more severely. MERS-CoV cases have been reported mainly in the Arabic peninsula since 2012. To date, seven CoV strains have infected humans, all descended from animals. The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronaviruses (SARS-CoV and SARS-CoV-2) are presumed to be originated in Rhinolopoid bats that severely infect humans with spillover to multiple domestic and wild animals. Emerging alpha and delta variants of SARS-CoV-2 were detected in pets and wild animals. Still, the intermediate hosts and all susceptible animal species remain unknown. SARS-CoV-2 might not be the last CoV to cross the species barrier. Hence, we recommend developing a universal CoV vaccine for humans so that any future outbreak can be prevented effectively. Furthermore, a One Health approach coronavirus surveillance should be implemented at human-animal interfaces to detect novel coronaviruses before emerging to humans and to prevent future epidemics and pandemics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ariful Islam
- EcoHealth Alliance, New York, NY 10001-2320, USA; (J.F.); (S.I.); (M.A.S.); (S.D.C.)
- Centre for Integrative Ecology, School of Life and Environmental Science, Deakin University, Burwood, VIC 3216, Australia
- Institute of Epidemiology, Disease Control and Research (IEDCR), Dhaka 1212, Bangladesh;
| | - Jinnat Ferdous
- EcoHealth Alliance, New York, NY 10001-2320, USA; (J.F.); (S.I.); (M.A.S.); (S.D.C.)
- Institute of Epidemiology, Disease Control and Research (IEDCR), Dhaka 1212, Bangladesh;
- School of Veterinary Science, The University of Queensland, Gatton, QLD 4343, Australia
| | - Shariful Islam
- EcoHealth Alliance, New York, NY 10001-2320, USA; (J.F.); (S.I.); (M.A.S.); (S.D.C.)
- Institute of Epidemiology, Disease Control and Research (IEDCR), Dhaka 1212, Bangladesh;
| | - Md. Abu Sayeed
- EcoHealth Alliance, New York, NY 10001-2320, USA; (J.F.); (S.I.); (M.A.S.); (S.D.C.)
- Institute of Epidemiology, Disease Control and Research (IEDCR), Dhaka 1212, Bangladesh;
| | - Shusmita Dutta Choudhury
- EcoHealth Alliance, New York, NY 10001-2320, USA; (J.F.); (S.I.); (M.A.S.); (S.D.C.)
- Institute of Epidemiology, Disease Control and Research (IEDCR), Dhaka 1212, Bangladesh;
| | - Otun Saha
- Department of Microbiology, University of Dhaka, Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh;
| | - Mohammad Mahmudul Hassan
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chattogram Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Chattogram 4225, Bangladesh;
| | - Tahmina Shirin
- Institute of Epidemiology, Disease Control and Research (IEDCR), Dhaka 1212, Bangladesh;
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50
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Devaux CA, Pinault L, Delerce J, Raoult D, Levasseur A, Frutos R. Spread of Mink SARS-CoV-2 Variants in Humans: A Model of Sarbecovirus Interspecies Evolution. Front Microbiol 2021; 12:675528. [PMID: 34616371 PMCID: PMC8488371 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2021.675528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2021] [Accepted: 09/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The rapid spread of SARS-CoV-2 variants has quickly spanned doubts and the fear about their ability escape vaccine protection. Some of these variants initially identified in caged were also found in humans. The claim that these variants exhibited lower susceptibility to antibody neutralization led to the slaughter of 17 million minks in Denmark. SARS-CoV-2 prevalence tests led to the discovery of infected farmed minks worldwide. In this study, we revisit the issue of the circulation of SARS-CoV-2 variants in minks as a model of sarbecovirus interspecies evolution by: (1) comparing human and mink angiotensin I converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) and neuropilin 1 (NRP-1) receptors; (2) comparing SARS-CoV-2 sequences from humans and minks; (3) analyzing the impact of mutations on the 3D structure of the spike protein; and (4) predicting linear epitope targets for immune response. Mink-selected SARS-CoV-2 variants carrying the Y453F/D614G mutations display an increased affinity for human ACE2 and can escape neutralization by one monoclonal antibody. However, they are unlikely to lose most of the major epitopes predicted to be targets for neutralizing antibodies. We discuss the consequences of these results for the rational use of SARS-CoV-2 vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian A. Devaux
- Aix-Marseille Université, IRD, APHM, MEPHI, IHU–Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France
- CNRS, Marseille, France
- Fondation IHU–Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France
| | - Lucile Pinault
- Aix-Marseille Université, IRD, APHM, MEPHI, IHU–Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France
| | - Jérémy Delerce
- Aix-Marseille Université, IRD, APHM, MEPHI, IHU–Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France
| | - Didier Raoult
- Aix-Marseille Université, IRD, APHM, MEPHI, IHU–Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France
| | - Anthony Levasseur
- Aix-Marseille Université, IRD, APHM, MEPHI, IHU–Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France
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