Prevalence and risk factors associated with SARS-CoV-2 infections among veterinary practitioners and dogs patients, June-August 2020, Lagos, Nigeria

Interactions between Humans and Dogs during the COVID-19 Pandemic: Recent Updates and Future Perspectives

COVID-19 is one of the deadliest epidemics. This pandemic is caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), but the role of dogs in spreading the disease in human society is poorly understood. This review sheds light on the limited susceptibility of dogs to COVID-19 infections which is likely attributed to the relatively low levels of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) in the respiratory tract and the phylogenetic distance of ACE2 in dogs from the human ACE2 receptor. The low levels of ACE2 affect the binding affinity between spike and ACE2 proteins resulting in it being uncommon for dogs to spread the disease. To demonstrate the role of dogs in spreading COVID-19, we reviewed the epidemiological studies and prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 in dogs. Additionally, we discussed the use of detection dogs as a rapid and reliable method for effectively discriminating between SARS-CoV-2 infected and non-infected individuals using different types of samples (secretions, saliva, and sweat). We considered the available information on COVID-19 in the human-dog interfaces involving the possibility of transmission of COVID-19 to dogs by infected individuals and vice versa, the human-dog behavior changes, and the importance of preventive measures because the risk of transmission by domestic dogs remains a concern.

SARS-CoV-2 as a Zooanthroponotic Infection: Spillbacks, Secondary Spillovers, and Their Importance

In the midst of a persistent pandemic of a probable zoonotic origin, one needs to constantly evaluate the interplay of SARS-CoV-2 (severe acute respiratory syndrome-related coronavirus-2) with animal populations. Animals can get infected from humans, and certain species, including mink and white-tailed deer, exhibit considerable animal-to-animal transmission resulting in potential endemicity, mutation pressure, and possible secondary spillover to humans. We attempt a comprehensive review of the available data on animal species infected by SARS-CoV-2, as presented in the scientific literature and official reports of relevant organizations. We further evaluate the lessons humans should learn from mink outbreaks, white-tailed deer endemicity, zoo outbreaks, the threat for certain species conservation, the possible implication of rodents in the evolution of novel variants such as Omicron, and the potential role of pets as animal reservoirs of the virus. Finally, we outline the need for a broader approach to the pandemic and epidemics, in general, incorporating the principles of One Health and Planetary Health.