A recent study serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing spread of the COVID-19 virus, with 9 out of 47 animals testing positive for SARS-CoV-2 at a zoo in Brazil. It is highly likely that the animals contracted the virus from humans.
The researchers, led by the Federal University of Minas Gerais in Brazil, point out the unique dynamics of human-animal interactions in zoos. The close proximity between multiple wildlife species and frequent interactions between animals and caregivers create an environment conducive to viral transmission.
Testing conducted at the Belo Horizonte Zoo between November 2021 and March 2023 revealed that three animals harbored viral genomes – a maned wolf and a fallow deer with the Alpha variant, and a western lowland gorilla with the Omicron strain. The genetic sequencing of the SARS-CoV-2 RNA from the animals closely resembled samples from infected humans in the same region.
The study highlights the role of close contact between zoo animals and caretakers as a major route of infection. The spatial proximity of the infected species within the zoo further supports this transmission pattern.
Given the potential for interspecies transmission, concerns arise regarding the virus’s ability to establish reservoirs in new hosts, posing risks of future outbreaks. Detecting and monitoring infections in zoo animals is crucial not only for protecting endangered species like western lowland gorillas but also for preventing the spread and evolution of the virus within wild populations.
The researchers emphasize the importance of integrated public health strategies that encompass wildlife monitoring to mitigate the threats posed by emerging infectious diseases. This research, published in the Virology Journal, underscores the urgency of understanding and addressing the ongoing evolution and adaptation of the virus in new hosts.
Vocabulary List:
- Transmission /trænzˈmɪʃən/ (noun): The act of spreading something such as a virus from one individual to another.
- Surveillance /sərˈveɪləns/ (noun): Close observation especially of a suspected spy or criminal; in this context monitoring of infections.
- Ecosystem /ˈiːkoʊˌsɪstəm/ (noun): A biological community of interacting organisms and their physical environment.
- Interspecies /ˌɪn.tərˈspiː.ʃiːz/ (adjective): Occurring between different species; relating to interactions or relationships between various species.
- Reservoirs /ˈrɛzərˌvwɑr/ (noun): Natural or artificial places where fluid is collected and stored often referring to carriers of disease.
- Endangered /ɪnˈdeɪndʒərd/ (adjective): At risk of extinction; referring to species that are at high risk due to low population numbers.
How much do you know?
What percentage of animals tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 at a zoo in Brazil?
Which university led the researchers in the study conducted at the Belo Horizonte Zoo?
Which animal in the study was found to have the Omicron strain of SARS-CoV-2?
What is highlighted as a major route of infection between zoo animals and caretakers in the study?
What concern arises due to the virus potentially establishing reservoirs in new hosts?
What is crucial for protecting endangered species and preventing the spread of the virus within wild populations according to the study?
Interspecies transmission is not a concern mentioned in the study.
The study was conducted at the Rio de Janeiro Zoo.
The genetic sequencing of the SARS-CoV-2 RNA from the animals closely resembled samples from infected humans in the same region.
The researchers emphasize the importance of isolated public health strategies in the study.
The study was published in the Journal of Virology.
The study highlights the role of frequent interactions between animals and visitors as a major route of infection.
Testing was conducted at the Belo Horizonte Zoo between November 2021 and March 2023, revealing that three animals harbored viral genomes – a maned wolf and a fallow deer with the Alpha variant, and a western lowland gorilla with the strain.
The potential for transmission raises concerns about the virus establishing reservoirs in new hosts.
Detecting and monitoring infections in zoo animals is crucial for protecting endangered species like western lowland gorillas and preventing the spread and evolution of the virus within populations.
The researchers emphasize the importance of integrated public health strategies that encompass monitoring to mitigate threats posed by emerging infectious diseases.
According to the study, close contact between zoo animals and is highlighted as a major route of infection.
The genetic sequencing of the SARS-CoV-2 RNA from the animals closely resembled samples from infected in the same region, indicating a potential source of transmission.