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Agüero B, Berrios F, Pardo-Roa C, Ariyama N, Bennett B, Medina RA, Neira V. First detection of Omicron variant BA.4.1 lineage in dogs, Chile. Vet Q 2024; 44:1-10. [PMID: 38174799 PMCID: PMC10769545 DOI: 10.1080/01652176.2023.2298089] [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: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 12/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2's rapid global spread caused the declaration of COVID-19 as a pandemic in March 2020. Alongside humans, domestic dogs and cats are also susceptible to infection. However, limited reports on pet infections in Chile prompted a comprehensive study to address this knowledge gap. Between March 2021 and March 2023, the study assessed 65 pets (26 dogs and 39 cats) from 33 COVID-19+ households alongside 700 nasal swabs from animals in households with unknown COVID-19 status. Using RT-PCR, nasal, fecal, and environmental samples were analyzed for the virus. In COVID-19+ households, 6.06% tested positive for SARS-CoV-2, belonging to 3 dogs, indicating human-to-pet transmission. Pets from households with unknown COVID-19 status tested negative for the virus. We obtained 2 SARS-CoV-2 genomes from animals, that belonged to Omicron BA.4.1 variant, marking the first report of pets infected with this lineage globally. Phylogenetic analysis showed these sequences clustered with human sequences collected in Chile during the same period when the BA.4.1 variant was prevalent in the country. The prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 in Chilean pets was relatively low, likely due to the country's high human vaccination rate. Our study highlights the importance of upholding and strengthening human vaccination strategies to mitigate the risk of interspecies transmission. It underscores the critical role of the One Health approach in addressing emerging zoonotic diseases, calling for further research on infection dynamics and risk factors for a comprehensive understanding.
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Affiliation(s)
- B. Agüero
- Programa de Doctorado en Ciencias Silvoagropecuarias y Veterinarias, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
- Departamento de Medicina Preventiva Animal, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias y Pecuarias, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - F. Berrios
- Departamento de Medicina Preventiva Animal, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias y Pecuarias, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - C. Pardo-Roa
- Department of Pediatric Infectious Diseases and Immunology, School of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
- Department of Child and Adolescent Health, School of Nursing, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - N. Ariyama
- Programa de Doctorado en Ciencias Silvoagropecuarias y Veterinarias, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
- Departamento de Medicina Preventiva Animal, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias y Pecuarias, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - B. Bennett
- Departamento de Medicina Preventiva Animal, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias y Pecuarias, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - RA. Medina
- Department of Pediatric Infectious Diseases and Immunology, School of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Emory Vaccine Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Department of Microbiology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - V. Neira
- Departamento de Medicina Preventiva Animal, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias y Pecuarias, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
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2
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Odigie AE, Capozza P, Tempesta M, Decaro N, Pratelli A. Epidemiological investigation of enteric canine coronaviruses in domestic dogs: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Res Vet Sci 2024; 174:105289. [PMID: 38749265 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2024.105289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2023] [Revised: 04/30/2024] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024]
Abstract
Canine enteric coronavirus (CeCoV) is a globally distributed enteric pathogen that causes significant harm to canines. The objective of this systematic review was to examine the global dissemination of CeCoV and assess the potential for infected canines to be exposed to various CeCoV genotypes and subtypes. With an aggregated prevalence of 18.8%, the study predicted regional variations, indicating that CeCoV is an exceptionally prevalent disease. The increased likelihood that infected canines will be asymptomatic is a significant cause for concern, as undetected cases of CeCoV infection could persist and spread the disease. This underscores the significance of ongoing surveillance of CeCoV in order to avert its transmission. Nevertheless, further investigation is necessary in order to ascertain the moderators that significantly impact the prevalence and distribution of distinct subtypes and genotypes of CeCoV. Hence, it is imperative to undertake randomized clinical trials in order to acquire a more accurate understanding of the variables that influence the prevalence of CeCoV. By conducting ongoing surveillance, regional variations in the prevalence of CeCoV in canines can be accounted for, thereby enhancing our comprehension of the illness and ultimately impeding its transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Paolo Capozza
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari, Valenzano, Bari, Italy
| | - Maria Tempesta
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari, Valenzano, Bari, Italy
| | - Nicola Decaro
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari, Valenzano, Bari, Italy
| | - Annamaria Pratelli
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari, Valenzano, Bari, Italy.
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3
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Su Z, McDonnell D, Cheshmehzangi A, Bentley BL, Šegalo S, da Veiga CP, Xiang YT. Where should "Humans" be in "One Health"? Lessons from COVID-19 for One Health. Global Health 2024; 20:24. [PMID: 38528528 PMCID: PMC10964596 DOI: 10.1186/s12992-024-01026-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024] Open
Abstract
The culling of animals that are infected, or suspected to be infected, with COVID-19 has fuelled outcry. What might have contributed to the ongoing debates and discussions about animal rights protection amid global health crises is the lack of a unified understanding and internationally agreed-upon definition of "One Health". The term One Health is often utilised to describe the imperative to protect the health of humans, animals, and plants, along with the overarching ecosystem in an increasingly connected and globalized world. However, to date, there is a dearth of research on how to balance public health decisions that could impact all key stakeholders under the umbrella of One Health, particularly in contexts where human suffering has been immense. To shed light on the issue, this paper discusses whether One Health means "human-centred connected health" in a largely human-dominated planet, particularly amid crises like COVID-19. The insights of this study could help policymakers make more informed decisions that could effectively and efficiently protect human health while balancing the health and well-being of the rest of the inhabitants of our shared planet Earth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhaohui Su
- School of Public Health, Institute for Human Rights, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210009, China.
| | - Dean McDonnell
- Department of Humanities, South East Technological University, Carlow, R93 V960, Ireland
| | - Ali Cheshmehzangi
- Center of Innovation for Education and Research (CIER), Qingdao City University, Qingdao, China
- Network for Education and Research On Peace and Sustainability, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, 739-8530, Japan
| | - Barry L Bentley
- Cardiff School of Technologies, Cardiff Metropolitan University, Cardiff, UK
- Collaboration for the Advancement of Sustainable Medical Innovation, University College London, London, UK
| | - Sabina Šegalo
- Faculty of Health Studies, University of Sarajevo, 71000, Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Claudimar Pereira da Veiga
- Fundação Dom Cabral - FDC, Av. Princesa Diana, 760 Alphaville, Lagoa Dos Ingleses, Nova Lima, MG, 34018-006, Brazil.
| | - Yu-Tao Xiang
- Unit of Psychiatry, Department of Public Health and Medicinal Administration; Institute of Translational Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences; Centre for Cognitive and Brain Sciences; Institute of Advanced Studies in Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macao SAR, China.
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4
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Heydarifard Z, Chegeni AM, Heydarifard F, Nikmanesh B, Salimi V. An overview of SARS-CoV2 natural infections in companion animals: A systematic review of the current evidence. Rev Med Virol 2024; 34:e2512. [PMID: 38282405 DOI: 10.1002/rmv.2512] [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: 07/26/2023] [Revised: 12/10/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/30/2024]
Abstract
This systematic review provides a comprehensive overview of natural SARS-CoV-2 infections in companion animals. The findings show that these infections are relatively rare. Among the examined dogs, only 1.32% tested positive for SARS-CoV-2, while for cats, the rate was 1.55%. Infections in rabbits and ferrets were even less common, at less than 1%. These results support previous research indicating the infrequency of natural infections in companion animals. The review also includes updated studies that involved various pets, such as cats, dogs, ferrets, and rabbits. The majority of the studies analyzed were primarily concerned with screening pets that visited veterinary clinics, regardless of whether they showed any specific signs of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Only a limited number of studies investigated infections in animals suspected of being in contact with owners or other animals that had COVID-19 or were exhibiting symptoms. The most common variant identified among the SARS-CoV-2 variants in the reviewed studies was B.1.1.7 (alpha), followed by B.1.617.2 (delta), B.1.526 (Iota), and others. The emergence of these variants raises concerns about their potential for increased transmissibility and virulence, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring of SARS-CoV-2 infections in both humans and animals. Furthermore, most of the reviewed studies indicated that infected pets either showed no symptoms or experienced mild symptoms. This aligns with previous reports suggesting that animals infected with SARS-CoV-2 generally have less severe illness compared to humans. However, it is essential to recognize the possibility of severe illness or death in animals, particularly those with underlying health conditions. Continuous surveillance of SARS-CoV-2 infections in companion animals is crucial for better understanding the virus's epidemiology in animals and developing effective strategies to protect both animal and human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Heydarifard
- Department of Virology, School of Medicine, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran
| | - Ardalan Maleki Chegeni
- Department of Virology, School of Medicine, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Heydarifard
- Department of Veterinary, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Lorestan University, Khorramabad, Iran
| | - Bahram Nikmanesh
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Zoonoses Research Centre, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Vahid Salimi
- Zoonoses Research Centre, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Virology Department, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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5
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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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6
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Liu B, Zhao P, Xu P, Han Y, Wang Y, Chen L, Wu Z, Yang J. A comprehensive dataset of animal-associated sarbecoviruses. Sci Data 2023; 10:681. [PMID: 37805633 PMCID: PMC10560225 DOI: 10.1038/s41597-023-02558-5] [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: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Zoonotic spillover of sarbecoviruses (SarbeCoVs) from non-human animals to humans under natural conditions has led to two large-scale pandemics, the severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) pandemic in 2003 and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Knowledge of the genetic diversity, geographical distribution, and host specificity of SarbeCoVs is therefore of interest for pandemic surveillance and origin tracing of SARS-CoV and SARS-CoV-2. This study presents a comprehensive repository of publicly available animal-associated SarbeCoVs, covering 1,535 viruses identified from 63 animal species distributed in 43 countries worldwide (as of February 14,2023). Relevant meta-information, such as host species, sampling time and location, was manually curated and included in the dataset to facilitate further research on the potential patterns of viral diversity and ecological characteristics. In addition, the dataset also provides well-annotated sequence sets of receptor-binding domains (RBDs) and receptor-binding motifs (RBMs) for the scientific community to highlight the potential determinants of successful cross-species transmission that could be aid in risk estimation and strategic design for future emerging infectious disease control and prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Liu
- NHC Key Laboratory of Systems Biology of Pathogens, Institute of Pathogen Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 110730, China
| | - Peng Zhao
- NHC Key Laboratory of Systems Biology of Pathogens, Institute of Pathogen Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 110730, China
| | - Panpan Xu
- NHC Key Laboratory of Systems Biology of Pathogens, Institute of Pathogen Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 110730, China
| | - Yelin Han
- NHC Key Laboratory of Systems Biology of Pathogens, Institute of Pathogen Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 110730, China
| | - Yuyang Wang
- NHC Key Laboratory of Systems Biology of Pathogens, Institute of Pathogen Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 110730, China
| | - Lihong Chen
- NHC Key Laboratory of Systems Biology of Pathogens, Institute of Pathogen Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 110730, China.
| | - Zhiqiang Wu
- NHC Key Laboratory of Systems Biology of Pathogens, Institute of Pathogen Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 110730, China.
| | - Jian Yang
- NHC Key Laboratory of Systems Biology of Pathogens, Institute of Pathogen Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 110730, China.
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7
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Barroso-Arévalo S, Díaz-Frutos M, Domínguez L, Sánchez-Vizcaíno JM. Importance of genomic surveillance of SARS-CoV-2 in cats during reverse zoonosis events: potential viral evolution may occur. Microbiol Spectr 2023; 11:e0068023. [PMID: 37565759 PMCID: PMC10581217 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.00680-23] [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: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The apparition of new variants of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 and lineages is constantly happening because of the high viral mutation rate. Since numerous reverse zoonosis events have been reported so far, genomic surveillance should be conducted in susceptible species to evaluate potential adaptations that may trigger the apparition of new variants. Here, we evaluate the evolution of the infection in a cat naturally infected in parallel with its owner, performing a comparative phylogenetic analysis. Sequencing analysis showed that both were infected with the Omicron BA.5/BF.1 lineage and revealed the presence of nucleotide substitution in the viral genome recovered from the cat with respect to the viral genome from the human sample. This nucleotide substitution (C11897A) produced the amino acid change Orf1a: Q3878K. Therefore, genomic surveillance in the case of reverse zoonosis events is still necessary in order to control possible adaptations of the virus to other susceptible species. IMPORTANCE Genomic surveillance of pets for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 is important to monitor the emergence of new variants of the virus associated with these animals. Pets can serve as a potential reservoir for the virus, and their close contact with humans increases the risk of transmission. By conducting genomic surveillance in pets, it is possible to detect and track new variants early on, allowing for more effective control measures to be put in place. This can help prevent the spread of these variants to human populations and potentially mitigate the impact of the pandemic. Furthermore, it may also provide insight into the evolution and spread of the virus within the animal population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Barroso-Arévalo
- VISAVET Health Surveillance Center, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Marta Díaz-Frutos
- VISAVET Health Surveillance Center, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Lucas Domínguez
- VISAVET Health Surveillance Center, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - José M. Sánchez-Vizcaíno
- VISAVET Health Surveillance Center, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
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8
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Tan CS, Bandak DB, Habeebur-Rahman SP, Tan LT, Lim LLA. Serosurveillance of SARS-CoV-2 in companion animals in Sarawak, Malaysia. Virol J 2023; 20:176. [PMID: 37550752 PMCID: PMC10408157 DOI: 10.1186/s12985-023-02133-9] [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: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/09/2023] Open
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 is a zoonotic betacoronavirus that was first reported at the dawn of 2019 in Wuhan, China and has since spread globally, causing an ongoing pandemic. Anthroponotic transmission was reported early, with confirmed infections reported in 26 species to date, including dogs and cats. However, there is a paucity of reports on the transmission of SARS-CoV-2 to companion animals, and thus, we aimed to estimate the seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 in dogs and cats in Sarawak, Malaysia. From August 2022 to 2023, we screened plasma samples of 172 companion animals in Sarawak, Malaysia, using a species-independent surrogate virus neutralization test. Our findings revealed the presence of neutralizing antibodies of SARS-CoV-2 in 24.5% (27/110) of dogs and 24.2% (15/62) of cats. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of the seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 in companion animals in Malaysia. Our findings emphasize the need for pet owners to distance themselves from their pets when unwell, and a strategy must be in place to monitor SARS-CoV-2 in companion animals to assess the potential impact of the virus on companion animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheng Siang Tan
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Malaysia Sarawak, 94300, Kota Samarahan, Sarawak, Malaysia.
| | | | | | - Lee Tung Tan
- Faculty of Engineering, Computing and Science, Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak Campus, 93350, Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia
| | - Li Li Andrea Lim
- Department of Veterinary Services Sarawak, 93250, Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia
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9
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Gerhards NM, Gonzales JL, Vreman S, Ravesloot L, van den Brand JMA, Doekes HP, Egberink HF, Stegeman A, Oreshkova N, van der Poel WHM, de Jong MCM. Efficient Direct and Limited Environmental Transmission of SARS-CoV-2 Lineage B.1.22 in Domestic Cats. Microbiol Spectr 2023; 11:e0255322. [PMID: 37222603 PMCID: PMC10269887 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.02553-22] [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: 07/05/2022] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/25/2023] Open
Abstract
The susceptibility of domestic cats to infection with SARS-CoV-2 has been demonstrated by several experimental studies and field observations. We performed an extensive study to further characterize the transmission of SARS-CoV-2 between cats, through both direct and indirect contact. To that end, we estimated the transmission rate parameter and the decay parameter for infectivity in the environment. Using four groups of pair-transmission experiment, all donor (inoculated) cats became infected, shed virus, and seroconverted, while three out of four direct contact cats got infected, shed virus, and two of those seroconverted. One out of eight cats exposed to a SARS-CoV-2-contaminated environment became infected but did not seroconvert. Statistical analysis of the transmission data gives a reproduction number R0 of 2.18 (95% CI = 0.92 to 4.08), a transmission rate parameter β of 0.23 day-1 (95% CI = 0.06 to 0.54), and a virus decay rate parameter μ of 2.73 day-1 (95% CI = 0.77 to 15.82). These data indicate that transmission between cats is efficient and can be sustained (R0 > 1), however, the infectiousness of a contaminated environment decays rapidly (mean duration of infectiousness 1/2.73 days). Despite this, infections of cats via exposure to a SARS-CoV-2-contaminated environment cannot be discounted if cats are exposed shortly after contamination. IMPORTANCE This article provides additional insight into the risk of infection that could arise from cats infected with SARS-CoV-2 by using epidemiological models to determine transmission parameters. Considering that transmission parameters are not always provided in the literature describing transmission experiments in animals, we demonstrate that mathematical analysis of experimental data is crucial to estimate the likelihood of transmission. This article is also relevant to animal health professionals and authorities involved in risk assessments for zoonotic spill-overs of SARS-CoV-2. Last but not least, the mathematical models to calculate transmission parameters are applicable to analyze the experimental transmission of other pathogens between animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nora M. Gerhards
- Department of Bioinformatics, Epidemiology and Animal Models, Wageningen Bioveterinary Research, Lelystad, the Netherlands
| | - Jose L. Gonzales
- Department of Bioinformatics, Epidemiology and Animal Models, Wageningen Bioveterinary Research, Lelystad, the Netherlands
| | - Sandra Vreman
- Department of Bacteriology, Host-Pathogen Interactions and Diagnostic Development, Wageningen Bioveterinary Research, Lelystad, the Netherlands
| | - Lars Ravesloot
- Department of Bacteriology, Host-Pathogen Interactions and Diagnostic Development, Wageningen Bioveterinary Research, Lelystad, the Netherlands
| | | | - Harmen P. Doekes
- Animal Breeding and Genomics, Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, the Netherlands
| | - Herman F. Egberink
- Division Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Section Virology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Arjan Stegeman
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Veterinary Epidemiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Nadia Oreshkova
- Department of Virology and Molecular Biology, Wageningen Bioveterinary Research, Lelystad, the Netherlands
| | - Wim H. M. van der Poel
- Department of Virology and Molecular Biology, Wageningen Bioveterinary Research, Lelystad, the Netherlands
| | - Mart C. M. de Jong
- Quantitative Veterinary Epidemiology, Wageningen University, Wageningen, the Netherlands
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10
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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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11
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Kumar D, Antiya SP, Patel SS, Pandit R, Joshi M, Mishra AK, Joshi CG, Patel AC. Surveillance and Molecular Characterization of SARS-CoV-2 Infection in Non-Human Hosts in Gujarat, India. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:14391. [PMID: 36361271 PMCID: PMC9657030 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192114391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2022] [Revised: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/29/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Since December 2019, Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) has been spreading worldwide, triggering one of the most challenging pandemics in the human population. In light of the reporting of this virus in domestic and wild animals from several parts of the world, a systematic surveillance study was conceptualized to detect SARS-CoV-2 among species of veterinary importance. Nasal and/or rectal samples of 413 animals (dogs n= 195, cattle n = 64, horses n = 42, goats n = 41, buffaloes n = 39, sheep n = 19, cats n = 6, camels n = 6, and a monkey n = 1) were collected from different places in the Gujarat state of India. RNA was extracted from the samples and subjected to RT-qPCR-based quantification of the target sequences in viral nucleoprotein (N), spike (S), and ORF1ab genes. A total of 95 (23.79%) animals were found positive, comprised of n = 67 (34.35%) dogs, n= 15 (23.43%) cattle, and n = 13 (33.33%) buffaloes. Whole SARS-CoV-2 genome sequencing was done from one sample (ID-A4N, from a dog), where 32 mutations, including 29 single-nucleotide variations (SNV) and 2 deletions, were detected. Among them, nine mutations were located in the receptor binding domain of the spike (S) protein. The consequent changes in the amino acid sequence revealed T19R, G142D, E156-, F157-, A222V, L452R, T478K, D614G, and P681R mutations in the S protein and D63G, R203M, and D377Y in the N protein. The lineage assigned to this SARS-CoV-2 sequence is B.1.617.2. Thus, the present study highlights the transmission of SARS-CoV-2 infection from human to animals and suggests being watchful for zoonosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dinesh Kumar
- Gujarat Biotechnology Research Centre (GBRC), Sector-11, Gandhinagar 382011, Gujarat, India
| | - Sejalben P. Antiya
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Sardarkrushinagar Campus, Kamdhenu University, Gandhinagar 382010, Gujarat, India
| | - Sandipkumar S. Patel
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Sardarkrushinagar Campus, Kamdhenu University, Gandhinagar 382010, Gujarat, India
| | - Ramesh Pandit
- Gujarat Biotechnology Research Centre (GBRC), Sector-11, Gandhinagar 382011, Gujarat, India
| | - Madhvi Joshi
- Gujarat Biotechnology Research Centre (GBRC), Sector-11, Gandhinagar 382011, Gujarat, India
| | - Abhinava K. Mishra
- Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology Department, University of California Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA 93106, USA
| | - Chaitanya G. Joshi
- Gujarat Biotechnology Research Centre (GBRC), Sector-11, Gandhinagar 382011, Gujarat, India
| | - Arunkumar C. Patel
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Sardarkrushinagar Campus, Kamdhenu University, Gandhinagar 382010, Gujarat, India
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12
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Evidence of Exposure to SARS-CoV-2 in Dogs and Cats from Households and Animal Shelters in Korea. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12202786. [PMID: 36290173 PMCID: PMC9597771 DOI: 10.3390/ani12202786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2022] [Revised: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic was caused by the zoonotic SARS-CoV-2. A variety of animals involved in human life worldwide have been investigated for infection. As the degree of infection increased, extensive monitoring in animals became necessary to determine the degree of infection in animals. The study was conducted on a sample of dogs and cats, which were randomly sampled according to the number of confirmed cases in the region. Animals from both COVID-19-confirmed households and generally disease-negative families and animal shelters were included. Tests included real-time qPCR tests for SARS-CoV-2 antigens, ELISA for antibodies, and plaque reduction neutralization tests (PRNT) for neutralizing antibodies. As a result, SARS-CoV-2 viral RNA was detected in 2 cats out of 1018 pets (672 dogs and 346 cats). A total of 16 dogs (2.38%) and 18 cats (5.20%) tested positive using ELISA, and 14 dogs (2.08%) and 17 cats (4.91%) tested positive using PRNT. Antigens of- and/or antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 were detected in the animals regardless of whether the companion family was infected; this was the case even in animal shelters, which have been regarded as relatively safe from transmission. In conclusion, continuous viral circulation between humans and animals is inevitable; therefore, continuous monitoring in animals is required.
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13
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Villanueva-Saz S, Martínez M, Giner J, González A, Tobajas AP, Pérez MD, Lira-Navarrete E, González-Ramírez AM, Macías-León J, Verde M, Yzuel A, Hurtado-Guerrero R, Arias M, Santiago L, Aguiló-Gisbert J, Ruíz H, Lacasta D, Marteles D, Fernández A. A cross-sectional serosurvey of SARS-CoV-2 and co-infections in stray cats from the second wave to the sixth wave of COVID-19 outbreaks in Spain. Vet Res Commun 2022; 47:615-629. [PMID: 36229725 PMCID: PMC9560875 DOI: 10.1007/s11259-022-10016-7] [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: 04/18/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 is the causative agent of Coronavirus Disease 2019 in humans. Among domestic animals, cats are more susceptible to SARS-CoV-2 than dogs. The detection of anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in seemingly healthy cats and/or infected cats which are in close contact with infected humans has been described. The presence of animals that tested positive by serology or molecular techniques could represent a potential transmission pathway of SARS-CoV-2 that can spill over into urban wildlife. This study analyses the seroprevalence variation of SARS-CoV-2 in stray cats from different waves of outbreaks in a geographical area where previous seroepidemiological information of SARS-CoV-2 was available and investigate if SARS-CoV-2-seropositive cats were exposed to other co-infections causing an immunosuppressive status and/or a chronic disease that could lead to a SARS-CoV-2 susceptibility. For this purpose, a total of 254 stray cats from Zaragoza (Spain) were included. This analysis was carried out by the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay using the receptor binding domain of Spike antigen and confirmed by serum virus neutralization assay. The presence of co-infections including Toxoplasma gondii, Leishmania infantum, Dirofilaria immitis, feline calicivirus, feline herpesvirus type 1, feline leukemia virus and feline immunodeficiency virus, was evaluated using different serological methods. A seropositivity of 1.57% was observed for SARS-CoV-2 including the presence of neutralizing antibodies in three cats. None of the seropositive to SARS-CoV-2 cats were positive to feline coronavirus, however, four SARS-CoV-2-seropositive cats were also seropositive to other pathogens such as L. infantum, D. immitis and FIV (n = 1), L. infantum and D. immitis (n = 1) and L. infantum alone (n = 1).Considering other pathogens, a seroprevalence of 16.54% was detected for L. infantum, 30.31% for D. immitis, 13.78%, for T. gondii, 83.86% for feline calicivirus, 42.52% for feline herpesvirus type 1, 3.15% for FeLV and 7.87% for FIV. Our findings suggest that the epidemiological role of stray cats in SARS-CoV-2 transmission is scarce, and there is no increase in seropositivity during the different waves of COVID-19 outbreaks in this group of animals. Further epidemiological surveillances are necessary to determine the risk that other animals might possess even though stray cats do not seem to play a role in transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergio Villanueva-Saz
- Clinical Immunology Laboratory, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain. .,Deparment of Animal Pathology, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain. .,Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón-IA2 (Universidad de Zaragoza-CITA), Zaragoza, Spain.
| | - Mariví Martínez
- Clinical Immunology Laboratory, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain.,Deparment of Animal Pathology, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Jacobo Giner
- Clinical Immunology Laboratory, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain.,Deparment of Animal Pathology, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Ana González
- Clinical Immunology Laboratory, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain.,Veterinary Teaching Hospital of the University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Ana Pilar Tobajas
- Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón-IA2 (Universidad de Zaragoza-CITA), Zaragoza, Spain.,Department of Animal Production and Sciences of the Food, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - María Dolores Pérez
- Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón-IA2 (Universidad de Zaragoza-CITA), Zaragoza, Spain.,Department of Animal Production and Sciences of the Food, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Erandi Lira-Navarrete
- Institute for Biocomputation and Physics of Complex Systems (BIFI), University of Zaragoza, Edificio I+D, Campus Rio Ebro, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Andrés Manuel González-Ramírez
- Institute for Biocomputation and Physics of Complex Systems (BIFI), University of Zaragoza, Edificio I+D, Campus Rio Ebro, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Javier Macías-León
- Institute for Biocomputation and Physics of Complex Systems (BIFI), University of Zaragoza, Edificio I+D, Campus Rio Ebro, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Maite Verde
- Clinical Immunology Laboratory, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain.,Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón-IA2 (Universidad de Zaragoza-CITA), Zaragoza, Spain.,Veterinary Teaching Hospital of the University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Andrés Yzuel
- Clinical Immunology Laboratory, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Ramón Hurtado-Guerrero
- Institute for Biocomputation and Physics of Complex Systems (BIFI), University of Zaragoza, Edificio I+D, Campus Rio Ebro, Zaragoza, Spain.,Aragon I+D Foundation (ARAID), Zaragoza, Spain.,Laboratorio de Microscopías Avanzada (LMA), University of Zaragoza, Edificio I+D, Campus Rio Ebro, Zaragoza, Spain.,, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, School of Dentistry, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Maykel Arias
- Aragon Health Research Institute (IIS Aragón), Zaragoza, Spain.,CIBER de Enfermedades Infecciosas, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Llipsy Santiago
- Aragon Health Research Institute (IIS Aragón), Zaragoza, Spain.,CIBER de Enfermedades Infecciosas, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Jordi Aguiló-Gisbert
- Servicio de Análisis, Investigación, Gestión de Animales Silvestres (SAIGAS), Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad Cardenal Herrera-CEU, Valencia, Spain
| | - Héctor Ruíz
- Deparment of Animal Pathology, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Delia Lacasta
- Deparment of Animal Pathology, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain.,Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón-IA2 (Universidad de Zaragoza-CITA), Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Diana Marteles
- Clinical Immunology Laboratory, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Antonio Fernández
- Clinical Immunology Laboratory, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain. .,Deparment of Animal Pathology, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain. .,Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón-IA2 (Universidad de Zaragoza-CITA), Zaragoza, Spain.
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14
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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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15
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Sánchez-Morales L, Sánchez-Vizcaíno JM, Pérez-Sancho M, Domínguez L, Barroso-Arévalo S. The Omicron (B.1.1.529) SARS-CoV-2 variant of concern also affects companion animals. Front Vet Sci 2022; 9:940710. [PMID: 36032286 PMCID: PMC9411866 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.940710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
The emergence of the Omicron variant (B.1. 1.529) has brought with it an increase in the incidence of SARS-CoV-2 disease. However, there is hardly any data on its incidence in companion animals. We have detected the presence of this new variant in domestic animals (dogs and cats) living with infected owners in Spain. None of the RT-qPCR positive animals (10.13%) presented any clinical signs and the viral loads detected were low. In addition, the shedding of viral RNA lasted a short period of time in the positive animals. Infection with this variant of concern (VOC) was confirmed by RT-qPCR and sequencing. These outcomes suggest a lower virulence of this variant in infected cats and dogs. They also demonstrate the transmission from infected humans to domestic animals and highlight the importance of active surveillance as well as genomic research to detect the presence of VOCs or mutations associated with animal hosts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lidia Sánchez-Morales
- VISAVET Health Surveillance Centre, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - José M. Sánchez-Vizcaíno
- VISAVET Health Surveillance Centre, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Marta Pérez-Sancho
- VISAVET Health Surveillance Centre, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Lucas Domínguez
- VISAVET Health Surveillance Centre, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Sandra Barroso-Arévalo
- VISAVET Health Surveillance Centre, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
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16
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High Seroprevalence against SARS-CoV-2 among Dogs and Cats, Poland, 2021/2022. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12162016. [PMID: 36009608 PMCID: PMC9404425 DOI: 10.3390/ani12162016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2022] [Revised: 08/06/2022] [Accepted: 08/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 is responsible for a pandemic in the human population that has unfolded since the beginning of 2020 and has led to millions of deaths globally. Apart from humans, SARS-CoV-2 has been confirmed in various animal species, including felines, canines, mustelids, and primates. Of these species, dogs and cats are the most popular companion animals worldwide. Several seroprevalence studies have already been performed in these animal species; however, the results vary depending on the location and especially the time of sampling. Here, serum samples were collected from a total of 388 dogs and 243 cats from three veterinary clinics in two cities (Gdańsk and Olsztyn) in Poland between October 2021 and February 2022, when the country was in the midst of the fourth wave of viral spread. All sera were tested for antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 by a multispecies ELISA based on the receptor-binding domain and by an indirect immunofluorescence assay (iIFA). Overall, 18.9% of the feline sera and 16.0% of the canine sera tested positive using ELISA and iIFA. This relatively high seroprevalence among randomly selected animals is most likely related to the high case numbers in the human population and indicates a continuous occurrence of transspecies virus transmissions from infected owners to their pets. Hence, dogs and cats should be included in monitoring studies and/or outbreak investigations for a better understanding of the epidemiology of this virus.
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17
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Li Z, Wang A, Zhou J, Chen Y, Liu H, Liu Y, Zhang Y, Ding P, Zhu X, Liang C, Qi Y, Liu E, Zhang G. A Universal Fluorescent Immunochromatography Assay Based on Quantum Dot Nanoparticles for the Rapid Detection of Specific Antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 Nucleocapsid Protein. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23116225. [PMID: 35682904 PMCID: PMC9180975 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23116225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2022] [Revised: 05/27/2022] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is the pathogenic agent leading to COVID-19. Due to high speed of transmission and mutation rates, universal diagnosis and appropriate prevention are still urgently needed. The nucleocapsid protein of SARS-CoV-2 is considered more conserved than spike proteins and is abundant during the virus’ life cycle, making it suitable for diagnostic applications. Here, we designed and developed a fluorescent immunochromatography assay (FICA) for the rapid detection of SARS-CoV-2-specific antibodies using ZnCdSe/ZnS QDs-conjugated nucleocapsid (N) proteins as probes. The nucleocapsid protein was expressed in E.coli and purified via Ni-NTA affinity chromatography with considerable concentration (0.762 mg/mL) and a purity of more than 90%, which could bind to specific antibodies and the complex could be captured by Staphylococcal protein A (SPA) with fluorescence displayed. After the optimization of coupling and detecting conditions, the limit of detection was determined to be 1:1.024 × 105 with an IgG concentration of 48.84 ng/mL with good specificity shown to antibodies against other zoonotic coronaviruses and respiratory infection-related viruses (n = 5). The universal fluorescent immunochromatography assay simplified operation processes in one step, which could be used for the point of care detection of SARS-CoV-2-specific antibodies. Moreover, it was also considered as an efficient tool for the serological screening of potential susceptible animals and for monitoring the expansion of virus host ranges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zehui Li
- School of Life Science, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China; (Z.L.); (A.W.); (J.Z.); (Y.C.); (H.L.); (Y.L.); (Y.Z.); (P.D.); (X.Z.); (C.L.); (Y.Q.); (E.L.)
| | - Aiping Wang
- School of Life Science, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China; (Z.L.); (A.W.); (J.Z.); (Y.C.); (H.L.); (Y.L.); (Y.Z.); (P.D.); (X.Z.); (C.L.); (Y.Q.); (E.L.)
| | - Jingming Zhou
- School of Life Science, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China; (Z.L.); (A.W.); (J.Z.); (Y.C.); (H.L.); (Y.L.); (Y.Z.); (P.D.); (X.Z.); (C.L.); (Y.Q.); (E.L.)
| | - Yumei Chen
- School of Life Science, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China; (Z.L.); (A.W.); (J.Z.); (Y.C.); (H.L.); (Y.L.); (Y.Z.); (P.D.); (X.Z.); (C.L.); (Y.Q.); (E.L.)
| | - Hongliang Liu
- School of Life Science, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China; (Z.L.); (A.W.); (J.Z.); (Y.C.); (H.L.); (Y.L.); (Y.Z.); (P.D.); (X.Z.); (C.L.); (Y.Q.); (E.L.)
| | - Yankai Liu
- School of Life Science, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China; (Z.L.); (A.W.); (J.Z.); (Y.C.); (H.L.); (Y.L.); (Y.Z.); (P.D.); (X.Z.); (C.L.); (Y.Q.); (E.L.)
| | - Ying Zhang
- School of Life Science, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China; (Z.L.); (A.W.); (J.Z.); (Y.C.); (H.L.); (Y.L.); (Y.Z.); (P.D.); (X.Z.); (C.L.); (Y.Q.); (E.L.)
| | - Peiyang Ding
- School of Life Science, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China; (Z.L.); (A.W.); (J.Z.); (Y.C.); (H.L.); (Y.L.); (Y.Z.); (P.D.); (X.Z.); (C.L.); (Y.Q.); (E.L.)
| | - Xifang Zhu
- School of Life Science, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China; (Z.L.); (A.W.); (J.Z.); (Y.C.); (H.L.); (Y.L.); (Y.Z.); (P.D.); (X.Z.); (C.L.); (Y.Q.); (E.L.)
| | - Chao Liang
- School of Life Science, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China; (Z.L.); (A.W.); (J.Z.); (Y.C.); (H.L.); (Y.L.); (Y.Z.); (P.D.); (X.Z.); (C.L.); (Y.Q.); (E.L.)
| | - Yanhua Qi
- School of Life Science, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China; (Z.L.); (A.W.); (J.Z.); (Y.C.); (H.L.); (Y.L.); (Y.Z.); (P.D.); (X.Z.); (C.L.); (Y.Q.); (E.L.)
| | - Enping Liu
- School of Life Science, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China; (Z.L.); (A.W.); (J.Z.); (Y.C.); (H.L.); (Y.L.); (Y.Z.); (P.D.); (X.Z.); (C.L.); (Y.Q.); (E.L.)
| | - Gaiping Zhang
- School of Life Science, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China; (Z.L.); (A.W.); (J.Z.); (Y.C.); (H.L.); (Y.L.); (Y.Z.); (P.D.); (X.Z.); (C.L.); (Y.Q.); (E.L.)
- School of Advanced Agriculture Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
- Longhu Laboratory of Advanced Immunology, Zhengzhou 450000, China
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +86-371-6355-0369
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18
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Bessière P, Vergne T, Battini M, Brun J, Averso J, Joly E, Guérin JL, Cadiergues MC. SARS-CoV-2 Infection in Companion Animals: Prospective Serological Survey and Risk Factor Analysis in France. Viruses 2022; 14:v14061178. [PMID: 35746652 PMCID: PMC9229200 DOI: 10.3390/v14061178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2022] [Revised: 05/26/2022] [Accepted: 05/26/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2), responsible for COVID-19 in people, has been detected in companion animals on rare occasions. A limited number of large-scale studies have investigated the exposure of companion animals to SARS-CoV-2. The objective of this prospective study was to estimate seroprevalence in privately owned dogs and cats presented in veterinary clinics in different French regions and to test the hypothesis that the occurrence of an episode of COVID-19 in the household and close contact with the owner would increase the chances of the animals being seropositive. One hundred and sixty-five dogs and 143 cats were blood-sampled between March 2020 and December 2021. Neutralizing SARS-CoV-2 antibodies were detected in 8.4% of cats (12/143) and 5.4% of dogs (9/165). Seven animals (three dogs and four cats) were seropositive in the absence of an episode of COVID-19 in the household. Despite not being statistically significant (chi-square test, p-value = 0.55), our data may suggest that the occurrence of an episode of COVID-19 in the household could increase the risk of animal seropositivity (odds ratio = 1.38; 95% confidence interval = 0.55–3.77). This survey indirectly shows that SARS-CoV-2 circulates in canine and feline populations, but its circulation appears to be too low for pets to act as a significant viral reservoir.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pierre Bessière
- IHAP, Université de Toulouse, INRAE, ENVT, 31076 Toulouse, France; (P.B.); (T.V.); (M.B.); (J.-L.G.)
| | - Timothée Vergne
- IHAP, Université de Toulouse, INRAE, ENVT, 31076 Toulouse, France; (P.B.); (T.V.); (M.B.); (J.-L.G.)
| | - Matéo Battini
- IHAP, Université de Toulouse, INRAE, ENVT, 31076 Toulouse, France; (P.B.); (T.V.); (M.B.); (J.-L.G.)
| | - Jessie Brun
- Small Animal Clinic, Université de Toulouse, ENVT, 31076 Toulouse, France; (J.B.); (J.A.)
| | - Julien Averso
- Small Animal Clinic, Université de Toulouse, ENVT, 31076 Toulouse, France; (J.B.); (J.A.)
| | - Etienne Joly
- Institute of Pharmacology and Structural Biology (IPBS), Université de Toulouse, CNRS, 31400 Toulouse, France;
| | - Jean-Luc Guérin
- IHAP, Université de Toulouse, INRAE, ENVT, 31076 Toulouse, France; (P.B.); (T.V.); (M.B.); (J.-L.G.)
| | - Marie-Christine Cadiergues
- Small Animal Clinic, Université de Toulouse, ENVT, 31076 Toulouse, France; (J.B.); (J.A.)
- INFINITy, Université de Toulouse, INSERM, CNRS, UT3, ENVT, 31059 Toulouse, France
- Correspondence:
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19
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A subunit vaccine candidate based on the Spike protein of SARS-CoV-2 prevents infectious virus shedding in cats. Res Vet Sci 2022; 148:52-64. [PMID: 35667227 PMCID: PMC9148427 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2022.05.003] [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: 12/22/2021] [Revised: 04/28/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Of the numerous animal species affected by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, cats are one of the most susceptible, and cat-to-cat transmission has been described. Although cat-to-human infection has not, as yet, been demonstrated, preventive measures should be taken in order to avoid both viral infection in cats and transmission among them. In this respect, the application of an effective vaccine to at-risk populations would be a useful tool for controlling the disease in this species. Here, we test a new vaccine prototype based on the Spike protein of the virus in order to prevent infection and infectious virus shedding in cats. The vaccine employed in experimentation, and which is easily produced, triggered a strong neutralizing antibody response in vaccinated animals. In contrast to that which occurred with control animals, no infectious virus was detected in the oropharyngeal or rectal swabs of vaccinated cats submitted to a SARS-CoV-2 challenge. These results are of great interest as regards future considerations related to implementing vaccination programs in pets. The value of cats as vaccination trial models is also described herein.
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20
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Barroso-Arévalo S, Sánchez-Morales L, Pérez-Sancho M, Domínguez L, Sánchez-Vizcaíno JM. First Detection of SARS-CoV-2 B.1.617.2 (Delta) Variant of Concern in a Symptomatic Cat in Spain. Front Vet Sci 2022; 9:841430. [PMID: 35433922 PMCID: PMC9011004 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.841430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 03/09/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Natural and experimental SARS-CoV-2 infection in pets has been widely evidenced since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. Among the numerous affected animals, cats are one of the most susceptible species. However, little is known about viral pathogenicity and transmissibility in the case of variants of concern (VOCs) in animal hosts, such as the B.1.617.2 (Delta) variant first detected in India. Here, we have identified the B.1.617.2 (Delta) VOC in a cat living with a COVID-19 positive owner. The animal presented mild symptoms (sneezing) and a high viral load was detected in the oropharyngeal swab, suggesting that an active infection was occurring in the upper respiratory tract of the cat. Transmission from the owner to the cat occurred despite the human being fully vaccinated against SARS-CoV-2. This study documents the first detection of B.1.165.2 VOC in a cat in Spain and emphasizes the importance of performing active surveillance and genomic investigation on infected animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Barroso-Arévalo
- VISAVET Health Surveillance Center, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- *Correspondence: Sandra Barroso-Arévalo
| | - Lidia Sánchez-Morales
- VISAVET Health Surveillance Center, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Marta Pérez-Sancho
- VISAVET Health Surveillance Center, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Lucas Domínguez
- VISAVET Health Surveillance Center, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - José M. Sánchez-Vizcaíno
- VISAVET Health Surveillance Center, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
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21
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Evaluation of the clinical evolution and transmission of SARS-CoV-2 infection in cats by simulating natural routes of infection. Vet Res Commun 2022; 46:837-852. [PMID: 35243589 PMCID: PMC8893356 DOI: 10.1007/s11259-022-09908-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2021] [Accepted: 02/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is the causative agent of the current pandemic disease denominated as Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19). Several studies suggest that the original source of this virus was a spillover from an animal reservoir and its subsequent adaptation to humans. Of all the different animals affected, cats are one of the most susceptible species. Moreover, several cases of natural infection in domestic and stray cats have been reported in the last few months. Although experimental infection assays have demonstrated that cats are successfully infected and can transmit the virus to other cats by aerosol, the conditions used for these experiments have not been specified in terms of ventilation. We have, therefore, evaluated the susceptibility of cats using routes of infection similar to those expected under natural conditions (exposure to a sneeze, cough, or contaminated environment) by aerosol and oral infection. We have also evaluated the transmission capacity among infected and naïve cats using different air exchange levels. Despite being infected using natural routes and shed virus for a long period, the cats did not transmit the virus to contact cats when air renovation features were employed. The infected animals also developed gross and histological lesions in several organs. These outcomes confirm that cats are at risk of infection when exposed to infected people, but do not transmit the virus to other cats with high rates of air renovation.
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