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Fang R, Yang X, Guo Y, Peng B, Dong R, Li S, Xu S. SARS-CoV-2 infection in animals: Patterns, transmission routes, and drivers. ECO-ENVIRONMENT & HEALTH (ONLINE) 2024; 3:45-54. [PMID: 38169914 PMCID: PMC10758742 DOI: 10.1016/j.eehl.2023.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Revised: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is more widespread in animals than previously thought, and it may be able to infect a wider range of domestic and wild species. To effectively control the spread of the virus and protect animal health, it is crucial to understand the cross-species transmission mechanisms and risk factors of SARS-CoV-2. This article collects published literature on SARS-CoV-2 in animals and examines the distribution, transmission routes, biophysical, and anthropogenic drivers of infected animals. The reported cases of infection in animals are mainly concentrated in South America, North America, and Europe, and species affected include lions, white-tailed deer, pangolins, minks, and cats. Biophysical factors influencing infection of animals with SARS-CoV-2 include environmental determinants, high-risk landscapes, air quality, and susceptibility of different animal species, while anthropogenic factors comprise human behavior, intensive livestock farming, animal markets, and land management. Due to current research gaps and surveillance capacity shortcomings, future mitigation strategies need to be designed from a One Health perspective, with research focused on key regions with significant data gaps in Asia and Africa to understand the drivers, pathways, and spatiotemporal dynamics of interspecies transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruying Fang
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Xin Yang
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Yiyang Guo
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Bingjie Peng
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Ruixuan Dong
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Sen Li
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Shunqing Xu
- School of Life Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China
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2
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Drozd M, Ritter JM, Samuelson JP, Parker M, Wang L, Sander SJ, Yoshicedo J, Wright L, Odani J, Shrader T, Lee E, Lockhart SR, Ghai RR, Terio KA. Mortality associated with SARS-CoV-2 in nondomestic felids. Vet Pathol 2024:3009858231225500. [PMID: 38323378 DOI: 10.1177/03009858231225500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
Between September and November 2021, 5 snow leopards (Panthera uncia) and 1 lion (Panthera leo) were naturally infected with severe acute respiratory coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and developed progressive respiratory disease that resulted in death. Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 sequencing identified the delta variant in all cases sequenced, which was the predominant human variant at that time. The time between initial clinical signs and death ranged from 3 to 45 days. Gross lesions in all 6 cats included nasal turbinate hyperemia with purulent discharge and marked pulmonary edema. Ulcerative tracheitis and bronchitis were noted in 4 cases. Histologically, there was necrotizing and ulcerative rhinotracheitis and bronchitis with fibrinocellular exudates and fibrinosuppurative to pyogranulomatous bronchopneumonia. The 4 cats that survived longer than 8 days had fungal abscesses. Concurrent bacteria were noted in 4 cases, including those with more acute disease courses. Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 was detected by in situ hybridization using probes against SARS-CoV-2 spike and nucleocapsid genes and by immunohistochemistry. Viral nucleic acid and protein were variably localized to mucosal and glandular epithelial cells, pneumocytes, macrophages, and fibrinocellular debris. Based on established criteria, SARS-CoV-2 was considered a contributing cause of death in all 6 cats. While mild clinical infections are more common, these findings suggest that some SARS-CoV-2 variants may cause more severe disease and that snow leopards may be more severely affected than other felids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary Drozd
- University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE
| | - Jana M Ritter
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA
| | | | | | - Leyi Wang
- University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL
| | | | | | - Louden Wright
- Great Plain Zoo, Sioux Falls, SD
- Nashville Zoo at Grassmere, Nashville, TN
| | - Jenee Odani
- University of Hawai'i at Mānoa, Honolulu, HI
| | | | - Elizabeth Lee
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA
| | | | - Ria R Ghai
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA
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3
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Drozd M, Ritter JM, Samuelson JP, Parker M, Wang L, Sander SJ, Yoshicedo J, Wright L, Odani J, Shrader T, Lee E, Lockhart SR, Ghai RR, Terio KA. Mortality associated with SARS-CoV-2 in nondomestic felids. Vet Pathol 2024. [DOI: https:/doi.org/10.1177/03009858231225500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/21/2024]
Abstract
Between September and November 2021, 5 snow leopards ( Panthera uncia) and 1 lion ( Panthera leo) were naturally infected with severe acute respiratory coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and developed progressive respiratory disease that resulted in death. Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 sequencing identified the delta variant in all cases sequenced, which was the predominant human variant at that time. The time between initial clinical signs and death ranged from 3 to 45 days. Gross lesions in all 6 cats included nasal turbinate hyperemia with purulent discharge and marked pulmonary edema. Ulcerative tracheitis and bronchitis were noted in 4 cases. Histologically, there was necrotizing and ulcerative rhinotracheitis and bronchitis with fibrinocellular exudates and fibrinosuppurative to pyogranulomatous bronchopneumonia. The 4 cats that survived longer than 8 days had fungal abscesses. Concurrent bacteria were noted in 4 cases, including those with more acute disease courses. Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 was detected by in situ hybridization using probes against SARS-CoV-2 spike and nucleocapsid genes and by immunohistochemistry. Viral nucleic acid and protein were variably localized to mucosal and glandular epithelial cells, pneumocytes, macrophages, and fibrinocellular debris. Based on established criteria, SARS-CoV-2 was considered a contributing cause of death in all 6 cats. While mild clinical infections are more common, these findings suggest that some SARS-CoV-2 variants may cause more severe disease and that snow leopards may be more severely affected than other felids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary Drozd
- University of Nebraska–Lincoln, Lincoln, NE
| | | | | | | | - Leyi Wang
- University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL
| | | | | | - Louden Wright
- Great Plain Zoo, Sioux Falls, SD
- Nashville Zoo at Grassmere, Nashville, TN
| | - Jenee Odani
- University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa, Honolulu, HI
| | | | - Elizabeth Lee
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA
| | | | - Ria R. Ghai
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA
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4
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Nooruzzaman M, Diel DG. Infection Dynamics, Pathogenesis, and Immunity to SARS-CoV-2 in Naturally Susceptible Animal Species. JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY (BALTIMORE, MD. : 1950) 2023; 211:1195-1201. [PMID: 37782853 PMCID: PMC10558081 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.2300378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/04/2023]
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2, the causative agent of the COVID-19 pandemic, presents a broad host range. Domestic cats and white-tailed deer (WTD) are particularly susceptible to SARS-CoV-2 with multiple variant strains being associated with infections in these species. The virus replicates in the upper respiratory tract and in associated lymphoid tissues, and it is shed through oral and nasal secretions, which leads to efficient transmission of the virus to contact animals. Robust cell-mediated and humoral immune responses are induced upon infection in domestic cats, which curb the progression of clinical disease and are associated with control of infection. In WTD, high levels of neutralizing Abs are detected early upon infection. In this review, the current understanding of the infection dynamics, pathogenesis, and immune responses to SARS-CoV-2 infection in animals, with special focus on naturally susceptible felids and WTD, are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed Nooruzzaman
- Department of Population Medicine and Diagnostic Sciences, Animal Health Diagnostic Center, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, United States of America
| | - Diego G. Diel
- Department of Population Medicine and Diagnostic Sciences, Animal Health Diagnostic Center, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, United States of America
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5
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Sánchez-Morales L, Sánchez-Vizcaíno JM, Domínguez L, Barroso-Arévalo S. A retrospective study of SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence in dogs and cats in the Community of Madrid, Spain. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1264172. [PMID: 37869682 PMCID: PMC10585060 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1264172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023] Open
Abstract
To date, susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2 infection in domestic animals including cats and dogs has been described. However, it is important to carry out passive surveillance of these animals to be aware of any changes in the outcomes of the disease in these species that may occur. In this study, we have performed a retrospective study in which we analyzed sera (n = 1,640) from random animals: dogs (n = 1,381) and cats (n = 259) belonging to both homes (n = 1,533) and animal protection centers (n = 107) in the Community of Madrid, Spain. Neutralizing antibodies were evaluated between November 2021 and May 2022 using a surrogate ELISA kit to determine the seroprevalence. Based on the results obtained, a few animals (both cats and dogs) presented neutralizing antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 (2.3%), all of them from private owners. However, the seroprevalence in cats (4.6%) resulted to be almost twice as much as in dogs (1.9%) which reinforces that cats' susceptibility to the infection seems higher than in the case of dogs, maybe due to the lower ACE2 expression of the dogs in the respiratory tract. These findings also confirm that the probability of infection is considerably higher in domestic animals in close contact with infected owners, compared to animals living in animal shelters whose contact with humans is markedly lower.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - José M. Sánchez-Vizcaíno
- VISAVET Health Surveillance Centre, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Science, 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 Science, 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 Science, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
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6
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Hamdy ME, El Deeb AH, Hagag NM, Shahein MA, Alaidi O, Hussein HA. Interspecies transmission of SARS CoV-2 with special emphasis on viral mutations and ACE-2 receptor homology roles. Int J Vet Sci Med 2023; 11:55-86. [PMID: 37441062 PMCID: PMC10334861 DOI: 10.1080/23144599.2023.2222981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2022] [Revised: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
COVID-19 outbreak was first reported in 2019, Wuhan, China. The spillover of the disease caused by Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), to a wide range of pet, zoo, wild, and farm animals has emphasized potential zoonotic and reverse zoonotic viral transmission. Furthermore, it has evoked inquiries about susceptibility of different animal species to SARS-CoV-2 infection and role of these animals as viral reservoirs. Therefore, studying susceptible and non-susceptible hosts for SARS-CoV-2 infection could give a better understanding for the virus and will help in preventing further outbreaks. Here, we review structural aspects of SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, the effect of the different mutations observed in the spike protein, and the impact of ACE2 receptor variations in different animal hosts on inter-species transmission. Moreover, the SARS-CoV-2 spillover chain was reviewed. Combination of SARS-CoV-2 high mutation rate and homology of cellular ACE2 receptors enable the virus to transcend species barriers and facilitate its transmission between humans and animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mervat E. Hamdy
- Genome Research Unit, Animal Health Research Institute, Agriculture Research Centre, Giza, Egypt
| | - Ayman H. El Deeb
- Department of Virology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
- Department of Virology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, King Salman International University, South Sinai, Egypt
| | - Naglaa M. Hagag
- Genome Research Unit, Animal Health Research Institute, Agriculture Research Centre, Giza, Egypt
| | - Momtaz A. Shahein
- Department of Virology, Animal Health Research Institute, Agriculture Research Centre, Giza, Egypt
| | - Osama Alaidi
- Biocomplexity for Research and Consulting Co., Cairo, Egypt
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, USA
- Department of Chemical Biology and Therapeutics, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Hussein A. Hussein
- Department of Virology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
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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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8
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Pourbagher-Shahri AM, Mohammadi G, Ghazavi H, Forouzanfar F. Susceptibility of domestic and companion animals to SARS-CoV-2: a comprehensive review. Trop Anim Health Prod 2023; 55:60. [PMID: 36725815 PMCID: PMC9891761 DOI: 10.1007/s11250-023-03470-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
The ongoing coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), has caused a large global outbreak. The reports of domestic animals' infection with SARS-CoV-2 raise concerns about the virus's longer-lasting spread, the establishment of a new host reservoir, or even the evolution of a new virus, as seen with COVID-19. In this review, we focus on the susceptibility of domestic animals, especially companion animals, towards SARS-CoV-2 in light of existing studies of natural infection, experimental infection, and serological surveys. Susceptibility of domestic and companion animals to SARS-CoV-2 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Mohammad Pourbagher-Shahri
- Neuroscience Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran ,Department of Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Gholamreza Mohammadi
- Department of Clinical Science, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Hamed Ghazavi
- Neuroscience Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran ,Department of Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Forouzanfar
- Neuroscience Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran ,Department of Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
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9
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Jarrah SA, Kmetiuk LB, Valleriani F, Bonfini B, Lorusso A, Vasinioti V, Decaro N, Dos Santos MT, Spohr KAH, Pratelli A, Serroni A, Capista S, Sousa VRF, Biondo AW, Nakazato L, Dutra V. SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in dogs and cats in a highly infected area of Brazil during the pandemic. Front Vet Sci 2023; 10:1111728. [PMID: 36908526 PMCID: PMC9995883 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1111728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023] Open
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 was a worldwide threat during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the state of Mato Grosso had the second highest mortality rate in Brazil, with 427. 4 deaths/100,000 inhabitants. However, no large-scale study among dogs and cats in such highly infected areas of Brazil has so far been conducted. Accordingly, the present study reports on a serosurvey among dogs and cats in Cuiabá, capital of Mato Grosso from November 2020 to July 2021, where the human mortality rate was 605/100,000 at that time. Overall, 33/762 dogs (4.3%) and 4/182 cats (2.2%) were found to be seropositive for SARS-CoV-2 through ELISA, and 3/762 dogs (0.4%) and 3/182 cats (1.6%) were seropositive through the serum neutralization test. Cats presented higher seroprevalence with higher titers of neutralizing antibodies. Although N-protein based ELISA may be a good screening test, cross-reactivity with other canine coronaviruses may impair its diagnostic use among dogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samar Afif Jarrah
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Federal University of Mato Grosso, Cuiabá, MT, Brazil
| | - Louise Bach Kmetiuk
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Paraná, Curitiba, PR, Brazil
| | - Fabrizia Valleriani
- Department of Virology, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale dell'Abruzzo e del Molise "G. Caporale", Teramo, TE, Italy
| | - Barbara Bonfini
- Department of Virology, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale dell'Abruzzo e del Molise "G. Caporale", Teramo, TE, Italy
| | - Alessio Lorusso
- Department of Virology, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale dell'Abruzzo e del Molise "G. Caporale", Teramo, TE, Italy
| | - Violetta Vasinioti
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari, Valenzano, BA, Italy
| | - Nicola Decaro
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari, Valenzano, BA, Italy
| | | | | | - Annamaria Pratelli
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari, Valenzano, BA, Italy
| | - Anna Serroni
- Department of Virology, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale dell'Abruzzo e del Molise "G. Caporale", Teramo, TE, Italy
| | - Sara Capista
- Department of Virology, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale dell'Abruzzo e del Molise "G. Caporale", Teramo, TE, Italy
| | | | | | - Luciano Nakazato
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Federal University of Mato Grosso, Cuiabá, MT, Brazil
| | - Valéria Dutra
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Federal University of Mato Grosso, Cuiabá, MT, Brazil
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Murphy H, Sanchez S, Ahmed S, Rhaman MM, Di D, Dileepan M, Heinrich D, Liang Y, Ly H. SARS-CoV-2 in companion animals: Do levels of SARS-CoV-2 seroconversion in pets correlate with those of pet's owners and with protection against subsequent SARS-CoV-2 infection? Virulence 2022; 13:1216-1220. [PMID: 35799426 PMCID: PMC9345533 DOI: 10.1080/21505594.2022.2098922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Da Di
- Department of Veterinary & Biomedical Sciences
| | | | - Daniel Heinrich
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Minnesota, Twin Cities, USA
| | | | - Hinh Ly
- Department of Veterinary & Biomedical Sciences
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11
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Doliff R, Martens P. Cats and SARS-CoV-2: A Scoping Review. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:1413. [PMID: 35681877 PMCID: PMC9179433 DOI: 10.3390/ani12111413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2022] [Revised: 05/20/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, various animal species were found to be susceptible to SARS-CoV-2 infection. The close contact that exists between humans and cats warrants special attention to the role of this species. Therefore, a scoping review was performed to obtain a comprehensive overview of the existing literature, and to map key concepts, types of research, and possible gaps in the research. A systematic search of the databases PubMed, Google Scholar, and Scopus and the preprint servers medRxiv and bioRxiv was performed. After a two-step screening process, 27 peer-reviewed articles, 8 scientific communication items, and 2 unpublished pre-prints were included. The main themes discussed were susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2, induced immunity, prevalence of infection, manifestation of infection, interspecies transmission between humans and cats, and lastly, intraspecies transmission between cats. The main gaps in the research identified were a lack of large-scale studies, underrepresentation of stray, feral, and shelter cat populations, lack of investigation into cat-to-cat transmissions under non-experimental conditions, and the relation of cats to other animal species regarding SARS-CoV-2. Overall, cats seemingly play a limited role in the spread of SARS-CoV-2. While cats are susceptible to the virus and reverse zoonotic transmission from humans to cats happens regularly, there is currently no evidence of SARS-CoV-2 circulation among cats.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Pim Martens
- University College Venlo, Maastricht University, Nassaustraat 36, 5911 BV Venlo, The Netherlands;
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12
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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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13
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Mastutik G, Rohman A, I'tishom R, Ruiz-Arrondo I, de Blas I. Experimental and natural infections of severe acute respiratory syndrome-related coronavirus 2 in pets and wild and farm animals. Vet World 2022; 15:565-589. [PMID: 35497948 PMCID: PMC9047133 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2022.565-589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Accepted: 01/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The severe acute respiratory syndrome-related coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has spread globally and has led to extremely high mortality rates. In addition to infecting humans, this virus also has infected animals. Experimental studies and natural infections showed that dogs have a low susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2 infection, whereas domesticated cats and other animals in the family Felidae, such as lions, tigers, snow leopards, and cougars, have a high susceptibility to viral infections. In addition, wild white-tailed deer, gorillas, and otters have been found to be infected by SARS-CoV-2. Furry farm animals, such as minks, have a high susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2 infection. The virus appears to spread among minks and generate several new mutations, resulting in increased viral virulence. Furthermore, livestock animals, such as cattle, sheep, and pigs, were found to have low susceptibility to the virus, whereas chicken, ducks, turkeys, quail, and geese did not show susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2 infection. This knowledge can provide insights for the development of SARS-CoV-2 mitigation strategies in animals and humans. Therefore, this review focuses on experimental (both replication and transmission) in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo studies of SARS-CoV-2 infections in pets and in wild and farm animals, and to provide details on the mechanism associated with natural infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gondo Mastutik
- Department of Anatomic Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya 60131, Indonesia
| | - Ali Rohman
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya 60115, Indonesia
| | - Reny I'tishom
- Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya 60131, Indonesia
| | - Ignacio Ruiz-Arrondo
- Center for Rickettsioses and Arthropod-Borne Diseases, Hospital Universitario San Pedro–CIBIR, Logroño, Spain
| | - Ignacio de Blas
- Department of Animal Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Instituto Universitario de Investigación Mixto Agroalimentario de Aragón (IA2), Universidad de Zaragoza, Spain
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14
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Sweet AN, André NM, Stout AE, Licitra BN, Whittaker GR. Clinical and Molecular Relationships between COVID-19 and Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP). Viruses 2022; 14:v14030481. [PMID: 35336888 PMCID: PMC8954060 DOI: 10.3390/v14030481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Revised: 02/09/2022] [Accepted: 02/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The emergence of severe acute respiratory syndrome 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has led the medical and scientific community to address questions surrounding the pathogenesis and clinical presentation of COVID-19; however, relevant clinical models outside of humans are still lacking. In felines, a ubiquitous coronavirus, described as feline coronavirus (FCoV), can present as feline infectious peritonitis (FIP)—a leading cause of mortality in young cats that is characterized as a severe, systemic inflammation. The diverse extrapulmonary signs of FIP and rapidly progressive disease course, coupled with a closely related etiologic agent, present a degree of overlap with COVID-19. This paper will explore the molecular and clinical relationships between FIP and COVID-19. While key differences between the two syndromes exist, these similarities support further examination of feline coronaviruses as a naturally occurring clinical model for coronavirus disease in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arjun N. Sweet
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology and Feline Health Center, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA; (A.N.S.); (N.M.A.); (A.E.S.)
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, College of Human Ecology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Nicole M. André
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology and Feline Health Center, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA; (A.N.S.); (N.M.A.); (A.E.S.)
| | - Alison E. Stout
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology and Feline Health Center, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA; (A.N.S.); (N.M.A.); (A.E.S.)
| | - Beth N. Licitra
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology and Feline Health Center, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA; (A.N.S.); (N.M.A.); (A.E.S.)
- Correspondence: (B.N.L.); (G.R.W.)
| | - Gary R. Whittaker
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology and Feline Health Center, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA; (A.N.S.); (N.M.A.); (A.E.S.)
- Correspondence: (B.N.L.); (G.R.W.)
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15
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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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16
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Jarrah SA, Kmetiuk LB, Carvalho OVD, Sousa ATHID, Souza VRF, Nakazato L, Colodel EM, Santos APD, Pettan-Brewer C, Hahn RC, Slhessarenko RD, Ubiali DG, Pereira AHB, Morais HAD, Biondo AW, Dutra V. Persistent SARS-CoV-2 antigen presence in multiple organs of a naturally infected cat from Brazil. J Venom Anim Toxins Incl Trop Dis 2022; 28:e20210074. [PMID: 35310131 PMCID: PMC8906534 DOI: 10.1590/1678-9199-jvatitd-2021-0074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2021] [Accepted: 08/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is the etiological agent of the disease coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) in humans. SARS-CoV-2 has been identified in cats with or without clinical signs. Case presentation: We describe the pathological and molecular findings in a six-month-old asymptomatic cat with SARS-CoV-2 infection from Brazil, belonging to a human family with COVID-19 cases. The pool of nasopharynx and oropharynx swabs at day zero tested positive by RT-qPCR for SARS-CoV-2. No amplification resulted from molecular testing performed on days 7 and 14. The cat was hit by a car and died 43 days after the molecular diagnosis. Immunohistochemistry at post-mortem examination demonstrated nucleocapsid protein in samples from the lungs, kidneys, nasal conchae, trachea, intestine, brain and spleen. Conclusion: The present study has highlighted the possibility that viral antigens can be detected by immunohistochemistry in multiple organs six weeks after infection, although the same tissues tested negative by RT-PCR.
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17
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DEMİRCİ M, YIĞIN A, KOCAZEYBEK B, KESKİN O. COVID-19 infections in pets such as cats and dogs. MEHMET AKIF ERSOY ÜNIVERSITESI VETERINER FAKÜLTESI DERGISI 2021. [DOI: 10.24880/maeuvfd.953646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
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18
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Patania OM, Chiba S, Halfmann PJ, Hatta M, Maemura T, Bernard KA, Kawaoka Y, Crawford LK. Pulmonary lesions induced by SARS-CoV-2 infection in domestic cats. Vet Pathol 2021; 59:696-706. [PMID: 34963403 PMCID: PMC9208068 DOI: 10.1177/03009858211066840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is the cause of coronavirus disease 2019, which ranges from fatal disease in some to mild or subclinical in most affected individuals. Many recovered human patients report persistent respiratory signs; however, lung disease in post-acute infection is poorly understood. Our objective was to describe histologic lung lesions and viral loads following experimental SARS-CoV-2 infection in 11 cats. Microscopic evaluation at 3, 6, 10, or 28 days postinoculation (DPI) identified mild to moderate patchy interstitial pneumonia, bronchiolar epithelial damage, and occlusive histiocytic bronchiolitis. Based on immunohistochemistry, alveolar septal thickening was due to CD204-positive macrophages, fewer B and T lymphocytes, type II pneumocytes, and capillary proliferation with a relative dearth of fibrosis. In blood vessel endothelium, there was reactive hypertrophy or vacuolar degeneration and increased MHC II expression at all time points. Unexpectedly, one cat from the 28 DPI group had severe subacute regionally extensive lymphohistiocytic pneumonia with multifocal consolidation, vasculitis, and alveolar fibrin. Reverse transcriptase-quantitative polymerase chain reaction identified SARS-CoV-2 RNA within the lung at 3 and 6 DPI, and viral RNA was below the limit of detection at 10 and 28 DPI, suggesting that pulmonary lesions persist beyond detection of viral RNA. These findings clarify our comparative understanding of disease induced by SARS-CoV-2 and suggest that cats can serve as an informative model to study post-acute pulmonary sequelae.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Shiho Chiba
- University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | | | - Masato Hatta
- University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | | | | | - Yoshihiro Kawaoka
- University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA.,University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
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19
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Meekins DA, Gaudreault NN, Richt JA. Natural and Experimental SARS-CoV-2 Infection in Domestic and Wild Animals. Viruses 2021; 13:1993. [PMID: 34696423 PMCID: PMC8540328 DOI: 10.3390/v13101993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2021] [Revised: 09/22/2021] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 is the etiological agent responsible for the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, which continues to spread with devastating effects on global health and socioeconomics. The susceptibility of domestic and wild animal species to infection is a critical facet of SARS-CoV-2 ecology, since reverse zoonotic spillover events resulting in SARS-CoV-2 outbreaks in animal populations could result in the establishment of new virus reservoirs. Adaptive mutations in the virus to new animal species could also complicate ongoing mitigation strategies to combat SARS-CoV-2. In addition, animal species susceptible to SARS-CoV-2 infection are essential as standardized preclinical models for the development and efficacy testing of vaccines and therapeutics. In this review, we summarize the current findings regarding the susceptibility of different domestic and wild animal species to experimental SARS-CoV-2 infection and provide detailed descriptions of the clinical disease and transmissibility in these animals. In addition, we outline the documented natural infections in animals that have occurred at the human-animal interface. A comprehensive understanding of animal susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2 is crucial to inform public health, veterinary, and agricultural systems, and to guide environmental policies.
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Affiliation(s)
- David A. Meekins
- Department of Diagnostic Medicine/Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA; (D.A.M.); (N.N.G.)
- Center of Excellence for Emerging and Zoonotic Animal Diseases (CEEZAD), College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66502, USA
| | - Natasha N. Gaudreault
- Department of Diagnostic Medicine/Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA; (D.A.M.); (N.N.G.)
- Center of Excellence for Emerging and Zoonotic Animal Diseases (CEEZAD), College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66502, USA
| | - Juergen A. Richt
- Department of Diagnostic Medicine/Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA; (D.A.M.); (N.N.G.)
- Center of Excellence for Emerging and Zoonotic Animal Diseases (CEEZAD), College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66502, USA
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20
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Ekstrand K, Flanagan AJ, Lin IE, Vejseli B, Cole A, Lally AP, Morris RL, Morgan KN. Animal Transmission of SARS-CoV-2 and the Welfare of Animals during the COVID-19 Pandemic. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:2044. [PMID: 34359172 PMCID: PMC8300090 DOI: 10.3390/ani11072044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2021] [Revised: 06/29/2021] [Accepted: 07/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
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.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Amanda J. Flanagan
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14850, USA;
| | - Ilyan E. Lin
- Department of Biology, Wheaton College, Norton, MA 02766, USA; (I.E.L.); (B.V.); (R.L.M.)
| | - Brendon Vejseli
- Department of Biology, Wheaton College, Norton, MA 02766, USA; (I.E.L.); (B.V.); (R.L.M.)
| | - Allicyn Cole
- Program in Neuroscience, Wheaton College, Norton, MA 02766, USA; (A.C.); (A.P.L.)
| | - Anna P. Lally
- Program in Neuroscience, Wheaton College, Norton, MA 02766, USA; (A.C.); (A.P.L.)
| | - Robert L. Morris
- Department of Biology, Wheaton College, Norton, MA 02766, USA; (I.E.L.); (B.V.); (R.L.M.)
| | - Kathleen N. Morgan
- Program in Neuroscience, Wheaton College, Norton, MA 02766, USA; (A.C.); (A.P.L.)
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21
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Goraichuk IV, Arefiev V, Stegniy BT, Gerilovych AP. Zoonotic and Reverse Zoonotic Transmissibility of SARS-CoV-2. Virus Res 2021; 302:198473. [PMID: 34118360 PMCID: PMC8188804 DOI: 10.1016/j.virusres.2021.198473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2021] [Revised: 06/02/2021] [Accepted: 06/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) is the first known pandemic caused by a coronavirus. Its causative agent, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), appears to be capable of infecting different mammalian species. Recent detections of this virus in pet, zoo, wild, and farm animals have compelled inquiry regarding the zoonotic (animal-to-human) and reverse zoonotic (human-to-animal) transmissibility of SARS-CoV-2 with the potential of COVID-19 pandemic evolving into a panzootic. It is important to monitor the global spread of disease and to assess the significance of genomic changes to support prevention and control efforts during a pandemic. An understanding of the SARS-CoV-2 epidemiology provides opportunities to prevent the risk of repeated re-infection of humans and requires a robust One Health-based investigation. This review paper describes the known properties and the existing gaps in scientific knowledge about the zoonotic and reverse zoonotic transmissibility of the novel virus SARS-CoV-2 and the COVID-19 disease it causes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iryna V Goraichuk
- National Scientific Center "Institute of Experimental and Clinical Veterinary Medicine", 83 Pushkinska street, Kharkiv, 61023, Ukraine.
| | - Vasiliy Arefiev
- National Scientific Center "Institute of Experimental and Clinical Veterinary Medicine", 83 Pushkinska street, Kharkiv, 61023, Ukraine.
| | - Borys T Stegniy
- National Scientific Center "Institute of Experimental and Clinical Veterinary Medicine", 83 Pushkinska street, Kharkiv, 61023, Ukraine.
| | - Anton P Gerilovych
- National Scientific Center "Institute of Experimental and Clinical Veterinary Medicine", 83 Pushkinska street, Kharkiv, 61023, Ukraine.
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22
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Natale A, Mazzotta E, Mason N, Ceglie L, Mion M, Stefani A, Fincato A, Bonfante F, Bortolami A, Monne I, Bellinati L, Guadagno C, Quaranta E, Pastori A, Terregino C. SARS-Cov-2 Natural Infection in a Symptomatic Cat: Diagnostic, Clinical and Medical Management in a One Health Vision. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:1640. [PMID: 34205893 PMCID: PMC8227534 DOI: 10.3390/ani11061640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2021] [Revised: 05/25/2021] [Accepted: 05/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite the reported increase in SARS-CoV-2-infected pets, the description of the clinical features from natural infection and the medical follow up in symptomatic pets is still not sufficiently documented. This study reports the case of an indoor cat that displayed respiratory signs and a gastrointestinal syndrome, following the COVID-19 diagnosis of his owners. Thoracic radiographies were suggestive of bronchial pneumonia, while blood tests were indicative of a mild inflammatory process. Nasal and oropharyngeal swabs tested positive through RT-qPCR assays targeting SARS-CoV-2 genes 14 days after his owners tested positive for the virus. Nasal swabs persisted to be RT-qPCR positive after 31 days. Serology confirmed the presence of antibodies through ELISA, electrochemiluminescence analysis and plaque reduction neutralization test, recording a high antibody titre after 31 days. The cat improved after medical treatment and clinically recovered. This study suggests that exposure to SARS-CoV-2 could lead to a natural infection with bronchial pneumonia in cats along with a possible prolonged persistence of SARS-CoV-2 RNA in the upper airways, albeit at a low level. The cat developed neutralizing antibodies, reaching a high titre after 31 days. Further descriptions of SARS-CoV-2 naturally infected pets, their medical management and diagnostic findings would be useful to enhance knowledge about COVID-19 in susceptible animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alda Natale
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, 35020 Legnaro, Italy; (E.M.); (L.C.); (M.M.); (A.S.); (A.F.); (F.B.); (A.B.); (I.M.); (L.B.); (E.Q.); (A.P.); (C.T.)
| | - Elisa Mazzotta
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, 35020 Legnaro, Italy; (E.M.); (L.C.); (M.M.); (A.S.); (A.F.); (F.B.); (A.B.); (I.M.); (L.B.); (E.Q.); (A.P.); (C.T.)
- Department of Animal Medicine, Productions and Health (MAPS), University of Padova, 35020 Legnaro, Italy
| | | | - Letizia Ceglie
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, 35020 Legnaro, Italy; (E.M.); (L.C.); (M.M.); (A.S.); (A.F.); (F.B.); (A.B.); (I.M.); (L.B.); (E.Q.); (A.P.); (C.T.)
| | - Monica Mion
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, 35020 Legnaro, Italy; (E.M.); (L.C.); (M.M.); (A.S.); (A.F.); (F.B.); (A.B.); (I.M.); (L.B.); (E.Q.); (A.P.); (C.T.)
| | - Annalisa Stefani
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, 35020 Legnaro, Italy; (E.M.); (L.C.); (M.M.); (A.S.); (A.F.); (F.B.); (A.B.); (I.M.); (L.B.); (E.Q.); (A.P.); (C.T.)
| | - Alice Fincato
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, 35020 Legnaro, Italy; (E.M.); (L.C.); (M.M.); (A.S.); (A.F.); (F.B.); (A.B.); (I.M.); (L.B.); (E.Q.); (A.P.); (C.T.)
| | - Francesco Bonfante
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, 35020 Legnaro, Italy; (E.M.); (L.C.); (M.M.); (A.S.); (A.F.); (F.B.); (A.B.); (I.M.); (L.B.); (E.Q.); (A.P.); (C.T.)
| | - Alessio Bortolami
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, 35020 Legnaro, Italy; (E.M.); (L.C.); (M.M.); (A.S.); (A.F.); (F.B.); (A.B.); (I.M.); (L.B.); (E.Q.); (A.P.); (C.T.)
| | - Isabella Monne
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, 35020 Legnaro, Italy; (E.M.); (L.C.); (M.M.); (A.S.); (A.F.); (F.B.); (A.B.); (I.M.); (L.B.); (E.Q.); (A.P.); (C.T.)
| | - Laura Bellinati
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, 35020 Legnaro, Italy; (E.M.); (L.C.); (M.M.); (A.S.); (A.F.); (F.B.); (A.B.); (I.M.); (L.B.); (E.Q.); (A.P.); (C.T.)
| | | | - Erika Quaranta
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, 35020 Legnaro, Italy; (E.M.); (L.C.); (M.M.); (A.S.); (A.F.); (F.B.); (A.B.); (I.M.); (L.B.); (E.Q.); (A.P.); (C.T.)
| | - Ambra Pastori
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, 35020 Legnaro, Italy; (E.M.); (L.C.); (M.M.); (A.S.); (A.F.); (F.B.); (A.B.); (I.M.); (L.B.); (E.Q.); (A.P.); (C.T.)
| | - Calogero Terregino
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, 35020 Legnaro, Italy; (E.M.); (L.C.); (M.M.); (A.S.); (A.F.); (F.B.); (A.B.); (I.M.); (L.B.); (E.Q.); (A.P.); (C.T.)
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