SARS-CoV-2 Infection in Dogs and Cats: Facts and Speculations

SARS-CoV-2 exposure in hunting and stray dogs of southern Italy

Evidence of exposure to the pandemic SARS-CoV-2 has been described in numerous animal species, including pets, which are predisposed to coming into contact with this virus due to their close relationship with owners. It has been accepted that dogs are poorly susceptible to this virus and that seroconversion, rather than shedding, occurs following infection, which can occur directly through contact with infected owners or indirectly through environmental contamination. In this study, the seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 was evaluated in apparently health hunting and stray dogs of Campania region, southern Italy (sampled in September 2023). A total of 5/112 (4.5%) animals tested seropositive using two different commercial ELISAs. Stray animals had greater exposure than hunting dogs. The feces and blood of each animal were tested with a real-time PCR targeting the nucleocapsid and ORF1ab coding sequences. No animal tested positive in molecular investigations, indicating a past exposure without active infection at the time of sampling.

SARS-CoV-2 Mu variant in dogs visiting veterinary clinics during the third pandemic peak in Eastern Colombia

The global presence of SARS-CoV-2 in household pets is acknowledged, yet documentation remains scarce, leaving many regions unexplored. Thus, our study sought to fill this gap by investigating SARS-CoV-2 presence in dogs visiting veterinary clinics during the third pandemic peak in eastern Colombia. We collected and analyzed 43 oropharyngeal and rectal swabs using real-time PCR assays targeting the Envelope Gene of SARS-CoV-2. Out of these, two dogs tested positive, indicating an infection rate of 4.7%. Further examination through complete sequencing and phylogenetic analysis revealed the lineage B.1.621 for the SARS-CoV-2 genome. Consequently, our study unveils the first documented cases of Canis lupus familiaris infected with the Mu variant of SARS-CoV-2, the variant with the most death burden during the whole pandemic in Colombia. Remarkably, these cases presented mild and reversible respiratory and gastrointestinal symptoms, or no clinical manifestations at all. This sheds light on the virus's interaction with our four-legged companions, offering valuable insights into its transmission dynamics and potential effects on animal health.

Rapid antigen detection of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 in stray cats: A cross-sectional study

Background and Aim

Although reverse zoonotic transmission events from humans to domestic cats have been described, there is currently little evidence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) circulation in stray cats. Due to the evidence of natural and experimental infections in cats and the capacity to disseminate the virus among them, this study aimed to identify the SARS-CoV-2 antigen in stray cats from the Federal University of Sergipe in Brazil.

Materials and Methods

One hundred twenty six stray cats from the university were screened for SARS-CoV-2 antigens by random sampling. Throat swab samples were tested for the virus using rapid antigen detection tests.

Results

Of the 126 animals tested, 30 (23.60%) were positive for SARS-CoV-2 antigens. To our knowledge, for the first time, this study detected the SARS-CoV-2 antigen in stray cats and confirmed the presence of SARS-CoV-2 infections in Brazil's stray cat population.

Conclusion

The detection of SARS-CoV-2 in stray cats poses a risk for infected and healthy animals and possibly for humans who attend the university daily. As a limitation of the study, the small sample size necessitates caution when interpreting the results. This underscores the need for further research in this area to help control diseases in stray animals during potential pandemics. This highlights the need for monitoring and controlling the spread of the virus in stray animal populations.

Droplet Digital RT-PCR (dd RT-PCR) Detection of SARS-CoV-2 in Honey Bees and Honey Collected in Apiaries across the Campania Region

Coronaviruses (CoVs), a subfamily of Orthocoronavirinae, are viruses that sometimes present a zoonotic character. Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) is responsible for the recent outbreak of COVID-19, which, since its outbreak in 2019, has caused about 774,593,066 confirmed cases and 7,028,881 deaths. Aereosols are the main route of transmission among people; however, viral droplets can contaminate surfaces and fomites as well as particulate matter (PM) in suspensions of natural and human origin. Honey bees are well known bioindicators of the presence of pollutants and PMs in the environment as they can collect a great variety of substances during their foraging activities. The aim of this study was to evaluate the possible role of honey bees as bioindicators of the prevalence SARS-CoV-2. In this regard, 91 samples of honey bees and 6 of honey were collected from different apiaries of Campania region (Southern Italy) in four time periods from September 2020 to June 2022 and were analyzed with Droplet Digital RT-PCR for SARS-CoV-2 target genes Orf1b and N. The screening revealed the presence of SARS-CoV-2 in 12/91 in honey bee samples and in 2/6 honey samples. These results suggest that honey bees could also be used as indicators of outbreaks of airborne pathogens such as SARS-CoV-2.

Natural SARS-CoV-2 infection in dogs: Determination of viral loads, distributions, localizations, and pathology

Instances of reverse zoonosis involving severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has been documented in both controlled experiments and spontaneous cases. Although dogs are susceptible to infection, clinical significance is limited to mild or asymptomatic. Here, we investigate the fatal cases of natural SARS-CoV-2 infection in dogs in Thailand. Pathological findings of SARS-CoV-2-infected dogs reveal severe diffuse alveolar damage, pulmonary hyalinization and fibrosis, and syncytial formation, together with minor lesions in brain and kidney. Employing reverse transcription-digital PCR, substantial viral loads of SARS-CoV-2 were detected in lung, kidney, brain, trachea, tonsil, tracheobronchial lymph node, liver, and intestine, respectively. Localization of SARS-CoV-2 within various tissues was examined through immunohistochemistry (IHC), where the co-localization of the viral spike protein and the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor was illustrated using double IHC. SARS-CoV-2 localization was markedly identified in the epithelial cells of the lung, trachea, intestine and kidneys, and moderately presented in the salivary gland and gall bladder, where the co-localization with the ACE2 was also evident. Neurons in the brainstem where exhibited lymphocytic perivascular cuffing were also found to be positive for SARS-CoV-2 in IHC testing, despite lacking ACE2 receptor expression. In addition, SARS-CoV-2 replication within the lungs of infected dogs was confirmed by transmission electron microscopy, visualizing free viral particles within the cytosol or the endoplasmic reticulum of syncytial cells within the lung. This study considerably expanded on the knowledge of the pathology associated with natural SARS-CoV-2 infection in dogs, a scenario that is relatively infrequent but occasionally leads to fatal outcome. Furthermore, these findings suggest the potential utility of dogs as a model for studying SARS-CoV-2 infection in humans, warranting further investigation.

Development and Validation of a Panel of One-Step Four-Plex qPCR/RT-qPCR Assays for Simultaneous Detection of SARS-CoV-2 and Other Pathogens Associated with Canine Infectious Respiratory Disease Complex

Canine infectious respiratory disease complex (CIRDC) is the primary cause of respiratory disease in the canine population and is caused by a wide array of viruses and bacterial pathogens with coinfections being common. Since its recognition in late 2019, Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) has been reported to cause respiratory disease in dogs. Therefore, the rapid detection and differentiation of SARS-CoV-2 from other common viral and bacterial agents is critical from a public health standpoint. Here, we developed and validated a panel of four one-step multiplex qPCR/RT-qPCR assays for the detection and identification of twelve pathogens associated with CIRDC (canine adenovirus-2, canine distemper virus, canine herpesvirus-1, canine influenza A virus, canine parainfluenza virus, canine pneumovirus, canine respiratory coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2, Bordetella bronchiseptica, Streptococcus equi subsp. zooepidemicus, Mycoplasma cynos, and M. canis), as well as the identification of three main CIV subtypes (i.e., H3N2, H3N8, and H1N1). All developed assays demonstrated high specificity and analytical sensitivity. This panel was used to test clinical specimens (n = 76) from CIRDC-suspected dogs. M. canis, M. cynos, and CRCoV were the most frequently identified pathogens (30.3%, 25.0%, and 19.7% of samples, respectively). The newly emerging pathogens CPnV and SARS-CoV-2 were detected in 5.3% of samples and coinfections were identified in 30.3%. This new multiplex qPCR/RT-qPCR panel is the most comprehensive panel developed thus far for identifying CIRDC pathogens, along with SARS-CoV-2.

Increase in SARS-CoV-2 Seroprevalence in UK Domestic Felids Despite Weak Immunogenicity of Post-Omicron Variants

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.

Near-complete genome of SARS-CoV-2 Delta variant of concern identified in a symptomatic dog (Canis lupus familiaris) in Botswana

We sought to investigate whether SARS-CoV-2 was present, and to perform full-length genomic sequencing, in a 5-year-old male crossbreed dog from Gaborone, Botswana that presented overt clinical signs (flu-like symptoms, dry hacking cough and mild dyspnoea). It was only sampled a posteriori, because three adult owners were diagnosed with SARS-CoV-2 infection. Next-generation sequencing based on Oxford Nanopore Technology (ONT) was performed on amplicons that were generated using a reverse transcriptase real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) of confirmed positive SARS-CoV-2 nasopharyngeal and buccal swabs, as well as a bronchoalveolar lavage with mean real cycle threshold (qCt) value of 36 based on the Nucleocapsid (N) gene. Descriptive comparisons to known sequences in Botswana and internationally were made using mutation profiling analysis and phylogenetic inferences. Human samples were not available. A near-full length SARS-CoV-2 genome (∼90% coverage) was successfully genotyped and classified under clade 20 O and Pango-Lineage AY.43 (Pango v.4.0.6 PLEARN-v1.3; 2022-04-21), which is a sublineage of the Delta variant of concern (VOC) (formerly called B.1.617.2, first detected in India). We did not identify novel mutations that may be used to distinguish SARS-CoV-2 isolates from the dog and humans. In addition to Spike (S) region mutation profiling, we performed phylogenetic analysis including 30 Delta sequences publicly available reference also isolated from dogs. In addition, we performed another exploratory analysis to investigate the phylogenetic relatedness of sequence isolated from dog with those from humans in Botswana (n = 1303) as of 31 March 2022 and of same sublineage. Expectedly, the sequence formed a cluster with Delta sublineages - AY.43, AY.116 and B.1.617.2 - circulating in same time frame. This is the first documented report of human-associated SARS-CoV-2 infection in a dog in Botswana. Although the direction of transmission remains unknown, this study further affirms the need for monitoring pets during different COVID-19 waves for possible clinically relevant SARS-CoV-2 transmissions between species.

Possible spread of SARS-CoV-2 in domestic and wild animals and body temperature role

The COVID-19 pandemic was officially announced in March 2020 and is still moving around the world. Virus strains, their pathogenicity and infectivity are changing, but the ability is fast to spread and harm people's health remained, despite the seasonality seasons and other circumstances. Most likely, humanity is doomed for a long time to coexistence with this emergent pathogen, since it is already circulating not only among the human population, but and among fauna, especially among wild animals in different regions of the planet. Thus, the range the virus has expanded, the material and conditions for its evolution are more than enough. The detection of SARS-CoV-2 in known infected fauna species is analyzed and possible spread and ongoing circulation of the virus in domestic and wild animals are discussed. One of the main focus of the article is the role of animal body temperature, its fluctuations and the presence of entry receptors in the susceptibility of different animal species to SARS-CoV-2 infection and virus spreading in possible new ecological niches. The possibility of long-term circulation of the pathogen among susceptible organisms is discussed.

Detection and genome characterisation of SARS-CoV-2 P.6 lineage in dogs and cats living with Uruguayan COVID-19 patients

BACKGROUND

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infections in domestic animals have occurred from the beginning of the pandemic to the present time. Therefore, from the perspective of One Health, investigating this topic is of global scientific and public interest.

OBJECTIVES

The present study aimed to determine the presence of SARS-CoV-2 in domestic animals whose owners had coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

METHODS

Nasopharyngeal and faecal samples were collected in Uruguay. Using quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), we analysed the presence of the SARS-CoV-2 genome. Complete genomes were obtained using ARTIC enrichment and Illumina sequencing. Sera samples were used for virus neutralisation assays.

FINDINGS

SARS-CoV-2 was detected in an asymptomatic dog and a cat. Viral genomes were identical and belonged to the P.6 Uruguayan SARS-CoV-2 lineage. Only antiserum from the infected cat contained neutralising antibodies against the ancestral SARS-CoV-2 strain and showed cross-reactivity against the Delta but not against the B.A.1 Omicron variant.

MAIN CONCLUSIONS

Domestic animals and the human SARS-CoV-2 P.6 variant comparison evidence a close relationship and gene flow between them. Different SARS-CoV-2 lineages infect dogs and cats, and no specific variants are adapted to domestic animals. This first record of SARS-CoV-2 in domestic animals from Uruguay supports regular surveillance of animals close to human hosts.

Clinical and epidemiologic features of SARS-CoV-2 in dogs and cats compiled through national surveillance in the United States

OBJECTIVE

To characterize clinical and epidemiologic features of SARS-CoV-2 in companion animals detected through both passive and active surveillance in the US.

ANIMALS

204 companion animals (109 cats, 95 dogs) across 33 states with confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infections between March 2020 and December 2021.

PROCEDURES

Public health officials, animal health officials, and academic researchers investigating zoonotic SARS-CoV-2 transmission events reported clinical, laboratory, and epidemiologic information through a standardized One Health surveillance process developed by the CDC and partners.

RESULTS

Among dogs and cats identified through passive surveillance, 94% (n = 87) had reported exposure to a person with COVID-19 before infection. Clinical signs of illness were present in 74% of pets identified through passive surveillance and 27% of pets identified through active surveillance. Duration of illness in pets averaged 15 days in cats and 12 days in dogs. The average time between human and pet onset of illness was 10 days. Viral nucleic acid was first detected at 3 days after exposure in both cats and dogs. Antibodies were detected starting 5 days after exposure, and titers were highest at 9 days in cats and 14 days in dogs.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Results of the present study supported that cats and dogs primarily become infected with SARS-CoV-2 following exposure to a person with COVID-19, most often their owners. Case investigation and surveillance that include both people and animals are necessary to understand transmission dynamics and viral evolution of zoonotic diseases like SARS-CoV-2.

Possible transmission of COVID-19 epidemic by a dog as a passive mechanical carrier of SARS-CoV-2, Chongqing, China, 2022

An outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) was reported in Yongchuan district of Chongqing, China in March 2022, while the source was unknown. We aimed to investigate the origin and transmission route of the virus in the outbreak. We conducted field investigations for all cases and collected their epidemiological and clinical data. We performed gene sequencing and phylogenetic analysis for the cases, and draw the epidemic curve and the case relationship chart to analyze interactions and possible transmission mode of the outbreak. A total of 11 cases of COVID-19, including 5 patients and 6 asymptomatic cases were laboratory-confirmed in the outbreak. The branch of the virus was Omicron BA.2 which was introduced into Yongchuan district by a traveler in early March. Patient F and asymptomatic case G had never contact with other positive-infected individuals, but close contact with their pet dog that sniffed the discarded cigarette butts and stepped on the sputum of patient B. Laboratory test results showed that the dog hair and kennel were positive for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), and the 10 isolates were highly homologous to an epidemic strain in a province of China. The investigation suggested that the contaminated dog by SARS-CoV-2 can act as a passive mechanical carrier of the virus and might transmit the virus to humans through close contact. Our findings suggest that during the COVID-19 pandemic, increasing hygiene measures and hand washing after close contact with pets is essential to minimize the risk of community spread of the virus.

The effects of 105 biological, socioeconomic, behavioral, and environmental factors on the risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection and a severe course of COVID-19: a prospective, explorative cohort study

The confirmed number of SARS-CoV-2 infections up to 18 October 2022 is 626 million worldwide, but information about factors affecting the probability of infection or a severe course of COVID-19 remains insufficient and often speculative. Only a small number of factors have been rigorously examined, mostly by retrospective or cross-sectional studies.

We ran a preregistered study on 5164 Internet users who shared information with us about their exposure to 105 risk factors and reported being COVID-19 negative before the beginning of the fourth wave of COVID-19 in the Czech Republic. After the fourth wave, in which 709 (13.7%) of participants were infected, we used a partial Kendall test controlled for sex, age, and urbanization to compare the risk of infection and a severe course of the disease in subjects who initially did and did not report exposure to particular risk factors.

After the correction for multiple tests, we identified 13 factors - including male sex, lower age, blood group B, and larger household size - that increased the risk of infection and 16 factors - including mask-wearing, borreliosis in the past, use of vitamin D supplements, or rooibos drinking - that decreased it. We also identified 23 factors that increased the risk of a severe course of COVID-19 and 12 factors that decreased the risk.

This preregistered longitudinal study is of explorative nature. Therefore, although the observed effects were strong and remained highly significant even after correction for multiple tests, it will be necessary to confirm their existence in future independent studies.

SARS-CoV-2 Transmission from Human to Pet and Suspected Transmission from Pet to Human, Thailand

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), has been the cause of human pandemic infection since late 2019. SARS-CoV-2 infection in animals has also been reported both naturally and experimentally, rendering awareness about a potential source of infection for one health concern.

SARS-CoV-2 infection in dogs and cats is associated with contact to COVID-19-positive household members

Several domestic and wild animal species are susceptible to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection. Reported (sero)prevalence in dogs and cats vary largely depending on the target population, test characteristics, geographical location and time period. This research assessed the prevalence of SARS-CoV-2-positive cats and dogs (PCR- and/or antibody positive) in two different populations. Dogs and cats living in a household with at least one confirmed COVID-19-positive person (household (HH) study; 156 dogs and 152 cats) and dogs and cats visiting a veterinary clinic (VC) (VC study; 183 dogs and 140 cats) were sampled and tested for presence of virus (PCR) and antibodies. Potential risk factors were evaluated and follow-up of PCR-positive animals was performed to determine the duration of virus shedding and to detect potential transmission between pets in the same HH. In the HH study, 18.8% (27 dogs, 31 cats) tested SARS-CoV-2 positive (PCR- and/or antibody positive), whereas in the VC study, SARS-CoV-2 prevalence was much lower (4.6%; six dogs, nine cats). SARS-CoV-2 prevalence amongst dogs and cats was significantly higher in the multi-person HHs with two or more COVID-19-positive persons compared with multi-person HHs with only one COVID-19-positive person. In both study populations, no associations could be identified between SARS-CoV-2 status of the animal and health status, age or sex. During follow-up of PCR-positive animals, no transmission to other pets in the HH was observed despite long-lasting virus shedding in cats (up to 35 days). SARS-CoV-2 infection in dogs and cats appeared to be clearly associated with reported COVID-19-positive status of the HH. Our study supports previous findings and suggests a very low risk of pet-to-human transmission within HHs, no severe clinical signs in pets and a negligible pet-to-pet transmission between HHs.

Microneedle Delivery of an Adjuvanted Microparticulate Vaccine Induces High Antibody Levels in Mice Vaccinated against Coronavirus

This ‘proof-of-concept’ study aimed to test the microparticulate vaccine delivery system and a transdermal vaccine administration strategy using dissolving microneedles (MN). For this purpose, we formulated poly(lactic-co-glycolic) acid (PLGA) microparticles (MP) encapsulating the inactivated canine coronavirus (iCCoV), as a model antigen, along with adjuvant MP encapsulating Alhydrogel^® and AddaVax. We characterized the vaccine MP for size, surface charge, morphology, and encapsulation efficiency. Further, we evaluated the in vitro immunogenicity, cytotoxicity, and antigen-presentation of vaccine/adjuvant MP in murine dendritic cells (DCs). Additionally, we tested the in vivo immunogenicity of the MP vaccine in mice through MN administration. We evaluated the serum IgG, IgA, IgG1, and IgG2a responses using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The results indicate that the particulate form of the vaccine is more immunogenic than the antigen suspension in vitro. We found the vaccine/adjuvant MP to be non-cytotoxic to DCs. The expression of antigen-presenting molecules, MHC I/II, and their costimulatory molecules, CD80/40, increased with the addition of the adjuvants. Moreover, the results suggest that the MP vaccine is cross presented by the DCs. In vivo, the adjuvanted MP vaccine induced increased antibody levels in mice following vaccination and will further be assessed for its cell-mediated responses.

High Seroprevalence against SARS-CoV-2 among Dogs and Cats, Poland, 2021/2022

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.

Routine Decontamination of Surfaces Relevant to Working Dogs: Neutralization of Superficial Coronavirus Contamination

Given the increased deployment of working dogs to settings with pathogenic biological agents, a safe, effective, and logistically feasible surface decontamination protocol is essential to protect both the animals and their human handlers. Our group previously found that superficial contamination on surfaces relevant to the working dog community, including leashes and toys, could be significantly reduced using a standardized wiping protocol with various cleansing products. To expand upon this work, we analyzed the ability of this protocol to decontaminate surface-deposited bovine coronavirus, which was used as a BSL2 surrogate for SARS-CoV-2. Unsurprisingly, the physical characteristics of a given surface, including porosity and texture, had a significant effect on the ability to recover viable virus remaining on the surface post treatment. After correcting for these differences, however, wiping with 70% isopropyl alcohol (IPA) and 0.5% chlorhexidine performed best, reducing viral titers by >3 log on plastic bumper toys and nylon collars, and by >2 log on rubber toys and tennis balls. Leather leashes and Velcro proved more difficult to decontaminate, but both still showed significant loss of viral contamination following wiping with IPA or chlorhexidine. This work (i) validates the utility of a simple protocol for the neutralization of viruses on several surfaces, (ii) identifies materials that are more difficult to decontaminate, which should, thus, be considered for removal from field use, and (iii) highlights the need for further development of protocols testing porous or textured surfaces.

First evidence of human-to-dog transmission of SARS-CoV-2 B.1.160 variant in France

Since the start of the coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, several episodes of human-to-animal severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) transmission have been described in different countries. The role of pets, especially domestic dogs, in the COVID-19 epidemiology is highly questionable and needs further investigation. In this study, we report a case of COVID-19 in a French dog living in close contact with its owners who were COVID-19 patients. The dog presented rhinitis and was sampled 1 week after its owners (a man and a woman) were tested positive for COVID-19. The nasal swabs for the dog tested remained positive for SARS-CoV-2 by reverse transcription quantitative real-time PCR (RT-qPCR) 1 month following the first diagnosis. Specific anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies were detectable 12 days after the first diagnosis and persisted for at least 5 months as tested using enzyme-linked immunoassay (ELISA) and automated western blotting. The whole-genome sequences from the dog and its owners were 99%-100% identical (with the man and the woman's sequences, respectively) and matched the B.1.160 variant of concern (Marseille-4 variant), the most widespread in France at the time the dog was infected. This study documents the first detection of B.1.160 in pets (a dog) in France, and the first canine genome recovery of the B.1.160 variant of global concern. Moreover, given the enhanced infectivity and transmissibility of the Marseille-4 variant for humans, this case also highlights the risk that pets may potentially play a significant role in SARS-CoV-2 outbreaks and may transmit the infection to humans. We have evidence of human-to-dog transmission of the Marseille-4 variant since the owners were first to be infected. Finally, owners and veterinarians must be vigilent for canine COVID-19 when dogs are presented with respiratory clinical signs.

First Description of Serological Evidence for SARS-CoV-2 in Lactating Cows

Simple Summary

Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) is the agent of the disease that has caused a global pandemic, known as coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Coronaviruses (CoVs) may emerge from wildlife hosts and infect humans and animals. Up to now, natural infection with SARS-CoV-2 has been reported in several animals, but it has not been found in farm animals, such as buffaloes, goats, sheep, horses, rabbits, hens, pigs, or cows, despite contact with their SARS-CoV-2-positive human breeders. Furthermore, a low susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2 has been detected in experimentally infected cattle with SARS-CoV-2. The unknown zoonotic potential of this virus is a cause of concern for pet owners and farmers. The limited data on cattle suggest that cattle show low susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2 and probably do not function as reservoirs. However, in areas with large cattle populations and a high prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 infection in humans, close contact between livestock and farmworkers may cause reverse zoonotic infections in cattle, as has already been described for highly sensitive animal species, such as minks, cats, and dogs. Thus, studying the zoonotic characteristics of SARS-CoV-2 could help in the development of a strategy for virus detection and the control of viral dissemination.

Abstract

Following the COVID-19 epidemic outbreak in Ariano Irpino, Campania region (Italy), we tested lactating cows for the presence of SARS-CoV-2 on a cattle farm at which, prior to the investigation, 13 of the 20 farmworkers showed COVID-19-like symptoms, and one of them died. Twenty-four lactating cows were sampled to detect SARS-CoV-2. All nasal and rectal swabs and milk samples were negative for SARS-CoV-2 RNA. Of the 24 collected serum samples, 11 showed antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid protein, 14 showed antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, and 13 developed neutralising antibodies for SARS-COV-2; all samples were negative for Bovine Coronavirus (BCoV), another betacoronavirus. To our knowledge, this is the first report of natural serological evidence of SARS-CoV-2 infection in lactating cows. We hypothesise that this may be a case of reverse zoonosis. However, the role of cattle in SARS-CoV-2 infection and transmission seems to be negligible.

SARS-CoV-2 delta variant infection in domestic dogs and cats, Thailand

In June-September 2021, we investigated severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) infections in domestic dogs and cats (n = 225) in Bangkok and the vicinities, Thailand. SARS-CoV-2 was detected in a dog and a cat from COVID-19 positive households. Whole genome sequence analysis identified SARS-CoV-2 delta variant of concern (B.1.617.2). Phylogenetic analysis showed that SARS-CoV-2 isolated from dog and cat were grouped into sublineage AY.30 and AY.85, respectively. Antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 could be detected in both dog (day 9) and cat (day 14) after viral RNA detection. This study raises awareness on spill-over of variant of concern in domestic animals due to human-animal interface. Thus, surveillance of SARS-CoV-2 in domestic pets should be routinely conducted.

A Structural Comparison of SARS-CoV-2 Main Protease and Animal Coronaviral Main Protease Reveals Species-Specific Ligand Binding and Dimerization Mechanism

Animal coronaviruses (CoVs) have been identified to be the origin of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS)-CoV, Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS)-CoV, and probably SARS-CoV-2 that cause severe to fatal diseases in humans. Variations of zoonotic coronaviruses pose potential threats to global human beings. To overcome this problem, we focused on the main protease (Mpro), which is an evolutionary conserved viral protein among different coronaviruses. The broad-spectrum anti-coronaviral drug, GC376, was repurposed to target canine coronavirus (CCoV), which causes gastrointestinal infections in dogs. We found that GC376 can efficiently block the protease activity of CCoV Mpro and can thermodynamically stabilize its folding. The structure of CCoV Mpro in complex with GC376 was subsequently determined at 2.75 Å. GC376 reacts with the catalytic residue C144 of CCoV Mpro and forms an (R)- or (S)-configuration of hemithioacetal. A structural comparison of CCoV Mpro and other animal CoV Mpros with SARS-CoV-2 Mpro revealed three important structural determinants in a substrate-binding pocket that dictate entry and release of substrates. As compared with the conserved A141 of the S1 site and P188 of the S4 site in animal coronaviral Mpros, SARS-CoV-2 Mpro contains N142 and Q189 at equivalent positions which are considered to be more catalytically compatible. Furthermore, the conserved loop with residues 46-49 in animal coronaviral Mpros has been replaced by a stable α-helix in SARS-CoV-2 Mpro. In addition, the species-specific dimerization interface also influences the catalytic efficiency of CoV Mpros. Conclusively, the structural information of this study provides mechanistic insights into the ligand binding and dimerization of CoV Mpros among different species.

Frequent Infection of Cats With SARS-CoV-2 Irrespective of Pre-Existing Enzootic Coronavirus Immunity, Brazil 2020

Carnivores such as cats and minks are highly susceptible to SARS-CoV-2. Brazil is a global COVID-19 hot spot and several cases of human-to-cat transmission have been documented. We investigated the spread of SARS-CoV-2 by testing 547 domestic cats sampled between July-November 2020 from seven states in southern, southeastern, and northeastern Brazil. Moreover, we investigated whether immune responses elicited by enzootic coronaviruses affect SARS-CoV-2 infection in cats. We found infection with significantly higher neutralizing antibody titers against the Gamma variant of concern, endemic in Brazil during 2020, than against an early SARS-CoV-2 B.1 isolate (p<0.0001), validating the use of Gamma for further testing. The overall SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence in Brazilian cats during late 2020 validated by plaque reduction neutralization test (PRNT₉₀) was 7.3% (95% CI, 5.3-9.8). There was no significant difference in SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence in cats between Brazilian states, suggesting homogeneous infection levels ranging from 4.6% (95% CI, 2.2-8.4) to 11.4% (95% CI, 6.7-17.4; p=0.4438). Seroprevalence of the prototypic cat coronavirus Feline coronavirus (FCoV) in a PRNT₉₀ was high at 33.3% (95% CI, 24.9-42.5) and seroprevalence of Bovine coronavirus (BCoV) was low at 1.7% (95% CI, 0.2-5.9) in a PRNT₉₀. Neutralizing antibody titers were significantly lower for FCoV than for SARS-CoV-2 (p=0.0001), consistent with relatively more recent infection of cats with SARS-CoV-2. Neither the magnitude of SARS-CoV-2 antibody titers (p=0.6390), nor SARS-CoV-2 infection status were affected by FCoV serostatus (p=0.8863). Our data suggest that pre-existing immunity against enzootic coronaviruses neither prevents, nor enhances SARS-CoV-2 infection in cats. High SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence already during the first year of the pandemic substantiates frequent infection of domestic cats and raises concerns on potential SARS-CoV-2 mutations escaping human immunity upon spillback.

SARS-CoV-2 Serological and Biomolecular Analyses among Companion Animals in Campania Region (2020–2021)

The first reports of SARS-CoV-2 among domestic and wild animals, together with the rapid emergence of new variants, have created serious concerns regarding a possible spillback from animal hosts, which could accelerate the evolution of new viral strains. The present study aimed to investigate the prevalence and the transmission of SARS-CoV-2 among both owned and stray pets. A total of 182 dogs and 313 cats were tested for SARS-CoV-2. Specimens collected among owned and stray pets were subjected to RT-PCR and serological examinations. No viral RNA was detected, while anti-N antibodies were observed in six animals (1.3%), one dog (0.8%) and five cats (1.7%). Animals’ background revealed that owned cats, living with owners with COVID-19, showed significantly different prevalence compared to stray ones (p = 0.0067), while no difference was found among dogs. Among the seropositive pets, three owned cats also showed moderate neutralizing antibody titers. Pets and other species are susceptible to SARS-CoV-2 infection because of the spike affinity towards their ACE2 cellular receptor. Nevertheless, the risk of retransmission remains unclear since pet-to-human transmission has never been described. Due to the virus’ high mutation rate, new reservoirs cannot be excluded; thus, it is reasonable to test pets, mostly if living in households affected by COVID-19.

Detailed epitope mapping of SARS-CoV-2 nucleoprotein reveals specific immunoresponse in cats and dogs housed with COVID-19 patients

Since the initial emergence in December 2019, the novel Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has been reported in over 200 countries, representing an unprecedented challenge related to disease control worldwide. In this context, cases of human to animal transmission have been reported, raising concern about the potential role of companion animals in the pandemic and stressing the need for reliable animal testing. In the study, a detailed epitope mapping of SARS-CoV-2 nucleoprotein, using both human and pet sera, allowed the identification of the most antigenic region in the C-terminus domain of the protein, which was used to develop an experimental double antigen-based ELISA. A panel of pre-pandemic sera and sera of animals immunized against (or naturally infected with) related coronaviruses was used to assess assay specificity at 99.5%. Positive sera belonging to animals housed with COVID-19 patients were confirmed with the experimental double-antigen ELISA using Plaque Reduction Neutralization test (PRNT) test as gold standard. The availability of a serological assay that targets a highly specific viral antigen represents a valuable tool for multispecies monitoring of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection in susceptible animals.

Survey of SARS-CoV-2 in dogs and cats in high-risk areas during the second wave of COVID-19 outbreak, Thailand

A cross-sectional survey of SARS-CoV-2 in domestic dogs and cats was conducted in high-risk areas, five subdistricts of Samut Sakhon Province, the epicenter of the second wave of the COVID-19 outbreak in Thailand in February 2021. A total of 523 swab samples (nasal, oral, and rectal swabs) and 159 serum samples from dogs (n = 83) and cats (n = 93) were collected and tested for SARS-CoV-2 RNA and antibodies. All swab samples tested negative for SARS-CoV-2 RNA by real-time RT-PCR with three panels of specific primers and probes. Although all dogs and cats were negative for SARS-CoV-2 RNA, 3.14% (5/159) had anti-N-IgG antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 by indirect multispecies ELISA. Our results demonstrated SARS-CoV-2 exposure in domestic animals living in high-risk areas during the second wave of the COVID-19 outbreak in Thailand. Thus, the use of one health approach for monitoring SARS-CoV-2 in domestic animals in high-risk areas of COVID-19 outbreaks should be routinely conducted and will provide benefits to risk communications in communities.

SARS-CoV-2 antibodies seroprevalence in dogs from France using ELISA and an automated western blotting assay

Dogs are occasionally susceptible to SARS-CoV-2, developing few or no clinical signs. Epidemiological surveillance of SARS-CoV-2 in dogs requires testing to distinguish it from other canine coronaviruses. In the last year, significant advances have been made in the diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2, allowing its surveillance in both human and animal populations. Here, using ELISA and automated western blotting (AWB) assays, we performed a longitudinal study on 809 apparently healthy dogs from different regions of France to investigate anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies. There were three main groups: (i) 356 dogs sampled once before the pandemic, (ii) 235 dogs sampled once during the pandemic, and (iii) 218 dogs, including 82 dogs sampled twice (before and during the pandemic), 125 dogs sampled twice during the pandemic and 11 dogs sampled three times (once before and twice during the pandemic). Using ELISA, seroprevalence was significantly higher during the pandemic [5.5% (25/453)] than during the pre-pandemic period [1.1% (5/449)]. Among the 218 dogs sampled twice, at least 8 ELISA-seroconversions were observed. ELISA positive pre-pandemic sera were not confirmed in serial tests by AWB, indicating possible ELISA cross-reactivity, probably with other canine coronaviruses. A significant difference was observed between these two serological tests (Q = 88, p = 0.008). A clear correlation was observed between SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence in dogs and the incidence of SARS-CoV-2 infection in human population from the same area. AWB could be used as a second line assay to confirm the doubtful and discrepant ELISA results in dogs. Our results confirm the previous experimental models regarding the susceptibility of dogs to SARS-CoV-2, suggesting that viral transmission from and between dogs is weak or absent. However, the new variants with multiple mutations could adapt to dogs; this hypothesis cannot be ruled out in the absence of genomic data on SARS-CoV-2 from dogs.

Genomic investigation of a household SARS-CoV-2 disease cluster in Arizona involving a cat, dog, and pet owner

Arizona's COVID-19 and Pets Program is a prospective surveillance study being conducted to characterize how SARS-CoV-2 impacts companion animals living in households with SARS-CoV-2-positive individuals. Among the enrolled pets, we identified a SARS-CoV-2-infected cat and dog from the same household; both animals were asymptomatic but had close contact with the symptomatic and SARS-CoV-2-positive owner. Whole genome sequencing of animal and owner specimens revealed identical viral genomes of the B.1.575 lineage, suggesting zoonotic transmission of SARS-CoV-2 from human to at least one pet. This is the first report of the B.1.575 lineage in companion animals. Genetically linking SARS-CoV-2 between people and animals, and tracking changes in SARS-CoV-2 genomes is essential to detect any cross-species SARS-CoV-2 transmission that may lead to more transmissible or severe variants that can affect humans. Surveillance studies, including genomic analyses of owner and pet specimens, are needed to further our understanding of how SARS-CoV-2 impacts companion animals.

SARS-CoV-2 Infection in One Cat and Three Dogs Living in COVID-19-Positive Households in Madrid, Spain

In this study, we describe SARS-CoV-2 infection dynamics in one cat and three dogs from households with confirmed human cases of COVID-19 living in the Madrid Community (Spain) at the time of expansion (December 2020 through June 2021) of the alpha variant (lineage B.1.1.7). A thorough physical exam and nasopharyngeal, oropharyngeal, and rectal swabs were collected for real-time reverse-transcription PCR (RT-qPCR) SARS-CoV-2 testing on day 0 and in successive samplings on days 7, 14, 21, and 47 during monitoring. Blood was also drawn to determine complete blood counts, biochemical profiles, and serology of the IgG response against SARS-CoV-2. On day 0, the cat case 1 presented with dyspnea and fever associated with a mild bronchoalveolar pattern. The dog cases 2, 3, and 4 were healthy, but case 2 presented with coughing, dyspnea, and weakness, and case 4 exhibited coughing and bilateral nasal discharge 3 and 6 days before the clinical exam. Case 3 (from the same household as case 2) remained asymptomatic. SARS-CoV-2 detection by RT-qPCR showed that the cat case 1 and the dog case 2 exhibited the lowest cycle threshold (Ct) (Ct < 30) when they presented clinical signs. Viral detection failed in successive samplings. Serological analyses revealed a positive IgG response in cat case 1 and dog cases 3 and 4 shortly after or simultaneously to virus shedding. Dog case 2 was seronegative, but seroconverted 21 days after SARS-CoV-2 detection. SARS-CoV-2 genome sequencing was attempted, and genomes were classified as belonging to the B.1.1.7 lineage.

First cases of SARS-CoV-2 infection in dogs and cats in Thailand

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) has caused the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic in humans since late 2019. Here, we investigated SARS‐CoV‐2 infection in dogs and cats during COVID‐19 quarantine at private veterinary hospitals in Thailand. From April to May 2021, we detected SARS‐CoV‐2 in three out of 35 dogs and one out of nine cats from four out of 17 households with confirmed COVID‐19 patients. SARS‐CoV‐2 RNA was detected from one of the nasal, oral, rectal and environmental swabs of dog‐A (15 years old, mixed breed, male dog), cat‐B (1 year old, domestic shorthair, male cat), dog‐C (2 years old, mixed breed, female dog) and dog‐D (4 years old, Pomeranian, female dog). The animals tested positive for SARS‐CoV‐2 RNA from 4 to 30 days after pet owners were confirmed to be COVID‐19 positive. The animals consecutively tested positive for SARS‐CoV‐2 RNA for 4 to 10 days. One dog (dog‐A) showed mild clinical signs, while the other dogs and a cat remained asymptomatic during quarantine at the hospitals. SARS‐CoV‐2 specific neutralizing antibodies were detected in both the dogs and cat by surrogate virus neutralization tests. Phylogenetic and genomic mutation analyses of whole genome sequences of three SARS‐CoV‐2 strains from the dogs and cat revealed SARS‐CoV‐2 of the Alpha variant (B.1.1.7 lineage). Our findings are suggestive of human‐to‐animal transmission of SARS‐CoV‐2 in COVID‐19‐positive households and contamination of viral RNA in the environment. Public awareness of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection in pet dogs and cats in close contact with COVID‐19 patients should be raised.

Animal reservoirs of SARS-CoV-2: calculable COVID-19 risk for older adults from animal to human transmission

The current COVID-19 pandemic, caused by the highly contagious respiratory pathogen SARS-CoV-2 (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2), has already claimed close to three million lives. SARS-CoV-2 is a zoonotic disease: it emerged from a bat reservoir and it can infect a number of agricultural and companion animal species. SARS-CoV-2 can cause respiratory and intestinal infections, and potentially systemic multi-organ disease, in both humans and animals. The risk for severe illness and death with COVID-19 significantly increases with age, with older adults at highest risk. To combat the pandemic and protect the most susceptible group of older adults, understanding the human-animal interface and its relevance to disease transmission is vitally important. Currently high infection numbers are being sustained via human-to-human transmission of SARS-CoV-2. Yet, identifying potential animal reservoirs and potential vectors of the disease will contribute to stronger risk assessment strategies. In this review, the current information about SARS-CoV-2 infection in animals and the potential spread of SARS-CoV-2 to humans through contact with domestic animals (including dogs, cats, ferrets, hamsters), agricultural animals (e.g., farmed minks), laboratory animals, wild animals (e.g., deer mice), and zoo animals (felines, non-human primates) are discussed with a special focus on reducing mortality in older adults.

Toxoplasmosis is a risk factor for acquiring SARS-CoV-2 infection and a severe course of COVID-19 in the Czech and Slovak population: a preregistered exploratory internet cross-sectional study

Background

Latent toxoplasmosis, i.e. a lifelong infection with the protozoan parasite Toxoplasma gondii, affects about a third of the human population worldwide. In the past 10 years, numerous studies have shown that infected individuals have a significantly higher incidence of mental and physical health problems and are more prone to exhibiting the adverse effects of various diseases.

Methods

A cross-sectional internet study was performed on a population of 4499 (786 Toxoplasma-infected) participants and looked for factors which positively or negatively affect the risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection and likelihood of a severe course of COVID-19.

Results

Logistic regression and partial Kendall correlation controlling for sex, age, and size of the place of residence showed that latent toxoplasmosis had the strongest effect on the risk of infection (OR = 1.50) before sport (OR = 1.30) and borreliosis (1.27). It also had the strongest effect on the risk of severe course of infection (Tau = 0.146), before autoimmunity, immunodeficiency, male sex, keeping a cat, being overweight, borreliosis, higher age, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Toxoplasmosis augmented the adverse effects of other risk factors but was not the proximal cause of the effect of cat-keeping on higher likelihood of COVID infection and higher severity of the course of infection because the effect of cat-keeping was also observed (and in particular) in a subset of Toxoplasma-infected respondents (Tau = 0.153). Effects of keeping a cat were detected only in respondents from multi-member families, suggesting that a cat could be a vector for the transmission of SARS-CoV-2 within a family.

Conclusions

Toxoplasmosis is currently not considered a risk factor for COVID-19, and Toxoplasma-infected individuals are neither informed about their higher risk nor prioritised in vaccination programs. Because toxoplasmosis affects a large segment of the human population, its impact on COVID-19-associated effects on public health could be considerable.

Graphical abstract

A Comprehensive Overview on COVID-19: Future Perspectives

The outbreak of COVID-19 has proven to be an unprecedented disaster for the whole world. The virus has inflicted billion of lives across the globe in all aspects-physically, psychologically, as well as socially. Compared to the previous strains of β-CoV genera- MERS and SARS, SARS-CoV-2 has significantly higher transmissibility and worst post-recovery implications. A frequent mutation in the initial SARS-CoV-2 strain has been a major cause of mortalities (approx. 3 million deaths) and uncontrolled virulence (approx. 1 billion positive cases). As far as clinical manifestations are concerned, this particular virus has exhibited deleterious impacts on systems other than the respiratory system (primary target organ), such as the brain, hematological system, liver, kidneys, endocrine system, etc. with no promising curatives to date. Lack of emergency treatments and shortage of life-saving drugs has promoted the repurposing of existing therapeutics along with the emergence of vaccines with the combined efforts of scientists and industrial experts in this short span. This review summarizes every detail on COVID-19 and emphasizes undermining the future approaches to minimize its prevalence to the remaining lives.

Long-term persistence of neutralizing SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in pets

We monitored the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 antibody response in seven dogs and two cats by using two multispecies ELISA tests, plaque reduction neutralisation test and virus neutralization. SARS‐CoV‐2 neutralizing antibodies in pets persisted up to 10 months since the first positive testing, thus replicating observations in COVID‐19 human patients.

SARS-CoV-2 infection in domestic and feral cats: current evidence and implications

Current evidence indicates that cats play a limited role in COVID-19 epidemiology, and pets are probably dead-end hosts of SARS-CoV-2 and pose negligible risks of transmission to humans. Still, one health concept is to be adopted widely as a component of mitigation strategies to tackle the ongoing pandemic. Therefore, in terms of the magnitude of infection and potential to transmit SARS-CoV-2 to humans, our surveillance efforts should mainly focus on mustelids (especially minks, ferrets, and others) for early detection and control of infection. This will ensure that SARS-CoV-2 will not get established in the wild animal population of these susceptible species. We agree with Dr. Passarella Teixeira on the possibility of domestic and feral cats acting as an urban reservoir, subsequently transmitting the virus to human beings. However, it is less likely that such a phenomenon will be reported even if it has occurred due to the efficient and extensive human-to-human transmission of SARS-CoV-2.

The Emergence of SARS-CoV-2 within the Dog Population in Croatia: Host Factors and Clinical Outcome

Over a year into the COVID-19 pandemic, there is growing evidence that SARS-CoV-2 infections among dogs are more common than previously thought. In this study, the prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies was investigated in two dog populations. The first group was comprised of 1069 dogs admitted to the Veterinary Teaching Hospital for any given reason. The second group included dogs that shared households with confirmed COVID-19 cases in humans. This study group numbered 78 dogs. In COVID-19 infected households, 43.9% tested ELISA positive, and neutralising antibodies were detected in 25.64% of dogs. Those data are comparable with the secondary attack rate in the human population. With 14.69% of dogs in the general population testing ELISA positive, there was a surge of SARS-CoV-2 infections within the dog population amid the second wave of the pandemic. Noticeably seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 in the dog and the human population did not differ at the end of the study period. Male sex, breed and age were identified as significant risk factors. This study gives strong evidence that while acute dog infections are mostly asymptomatic, they can pose a significant risk to dog health. Due to the retrospective nature of this study, samples for viral isolation and PCR were unavailable. Still, seropositive dogs had a 1.97 times greater risk for developing central nervous symptoms.

Animal Transmission of SARS-CoV-2 and the Welfare of Animals during the COVID-19 Pandemic

The accelerated pace of research into Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) necessitates periodic summaries of current research. The present paper reviews virus susceptibilities in species with frequent human contact, and factors that are best predictors of virus susceptibility. Species reviewed were those in contact with humans through entertainment, pet, or agricultural trades, and for whom reports (either anecdotal or published) exist regarding the SARS-CoV-2 virus and/or the resulting disease state COVID-19. Available literature was searched using an artificial intelligence (AI)-assisted engine, as well as via common databases, such as Web of Science and Medline. The present review focuses on susceptibility and transmissibility of SARS-CoV-2, and polymorphisms in transmembrane protease serine 2 (TMPRSS2) and angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) that contribute to species differences. Dogs and pigs appear to have low susceptibility, while ferrets, mink, some hamster species, cats, and nonhuman primates (particularly Old World species) have high susceptibility. Precautions may therefore be warranted in interactions with such species, and more selectivity practiced when choosing appropriate species to serve as models for research.

Absence of SARS-CoV-2 RNA and anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in stray cats

SARS‐CoV‐2 positive or seropositive owned cats have been reported worldwide. The detection of seropositive stray cats in the proximity of farms of infected minks, coupled with the demonstration of cat‐to‐cat transmission in experimental settings, raise the question whether stray cats may have an epidemiological role in the COVID‐19 pandemic and may act as sentinel for the circulation of SARS‐CoV‐2.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the presence of SARS‐CoV‐2 RNA and anti‐SARS‐CoV‐2 antibodies in free roaming cats belonging to colonies located in an area highly affected by the COVID‐19 pandemic and to correlate the results with the positivity rate in people sharing the same area.

Interdigital, cutaneous, oropharyngeal, nasal and rectal swabs, as well as blood samples, were collected from 99 cats living in colonies and admitted to our hospital for neutering. This caseload corresponds to the 24.2% of the feline population living in the 25 sampled colonies and to the 5.6% of all the free‐roaming registered cats. The presence of SARS‐CoV‐2 RNA in swabs was assessed using real time RT‐PCR. Anti‐SARS‐CoV‐2 serum antibodies were assessed using commercially available ELISA kits and confirmed by serum virus neutralization.

In people, the SARS‐CoV‐2 positivity rate ranged from 3.0% to 5.1% (mean rate: 4.1%) and the seropositive rate from 12.1% to 16.3% (mean rate: 14.2%). Most of the colonies were in urban areas and resident cats had frequent contacts with external cats or people. A COVID‐19 positive caretaker was found, whereas all the cats were negative for SARS‐CoV‐2 RNA and seronegative.

Although the negative results cannot exclude previous infections followed by decrease of antibodies, this study suggests that colony cats do not have an important epidemiological role in SARS‐CoV‐2 transmission dynamics. Further studies on larger caseloads are warranted, also in the light of the emerging new viral variants, on a One Health perspective.

SARS-CoV-2 infection in cats and dogs in infected mink farms

Animals like mink, cats and dogs are susceptible to SARS‐CoV‐2 infection. In the Netherlands, 69 out of 127 mink farms were infected with SARS‐CoV‐2 between April and November 2020 and all mink on infected farms were culled after SARS‐CoV‐2 infection to prevent further spread of the virus. On some farms, (feral) cats and dogs were present. This study provides insight into the prevalence of SARS‐CoV‐2‐positive cats and dogs in 10 infected mink farms and their possible role in transmission of the virus. Throat and rectal swabs of 101 cats (12 domestic and 89 feral cats) and 13 dogs of 10 farms were tested for SARS‐CoV‐2 using PCR. Serological assays were performed on serum samples from 62 adult cats and all 13 dogs. Whole Genome Sequencing was performed on one cat sample. Cat‐to‐mink transmission parameters were estimated using data from all 10 farms. This study shows evidence of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection in 12 feral cats and 2 dogs. Eleven cats (18%) and two dogs (15%) tested serologically positive. Three feral cats (3%) and one dog (8%) tested PCR‐positive. The sequence generated from the cat throat swab clustered with mink sequences from the same farm. The calculated rate of mink‐to‐cat transmission showed that cats on average had a chance of 12% (95%CI 10%–18%) of becoming infected by mink, assuming no cat‐to‐cat transmission. As only feral cats were infected it is most likely that infections in cats were initiated by mink, not by humans. Whether both dogs were infected by mink or humans remains inconclusive. This study presents one of the first reports of interspecies transmission of SARS‐CoV‐2 that does not involve humans, namely mink‐to‐cat transmission, which should also be considered as a potential risk for spread of SARS‐CoV‐2.

Human-to-Cat SARS-CoV-2 Transmission: Case Report and Full-Genome Sequencing from an Infected Pet and Its Owner in Northern Italy

There have been previous reports of the human-to-cat transmission of SARS-CoV-2, but there are only a few molecular studies that have compared the whole genome of the virus in cats and their owners. We here describe a case of domestic SARS-CoV-2 transmission from a healthcare worker to his cat for which nasopharyngeal swabs of both the cat and its owner were used for full-genome analysis. The results indicate that quarantine measures should be extended to pets living in SARS-CoV-2-infected households.

SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic: Not the First, Not the Last

The common trait among the betacoronaviruses that emerged during the past two decades (the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-SARS-CoV, the Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus-MERS-CoV, and the recent SARS coronavirus 2-SARS-CoV-2) is their probable animal origin, all deriving from viruses present in bat species. Bats have arisen the attention of the scientific community as reservoir of emerging viruses, given their wide geographical distribution, their biological diversity (around 1400 species, 21 different families and over 200 genera), and their peculiar ecological and physiological characteristics which seem to facilitate them in harbouring a high viral diversity. Several human activities may enable the viral spill-over from bats to humans, such as deforestation, land-use changes, increased livestock grazing or intensive production of vegetal cultures. In addition, the globalization of trade and high global human mobility allow these viruses to be disseminated in few hours in many parts of the World. In order to avoid the emergence of new pandemic threats in the future we need to substantially change our global models of social and economic development, posing the conservation of biodiversity and the preservation of natural ecosystems as a pillar for the protection of global human health.