CHAPTER 4: Susceptibility and Spread of SARS-CoV-2 in Animals

It is apparent by now that severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has become established in human populations and not in animals; however, determining the susceptibility of wild, domestic, and farm animals is essential in order to establish their respective role in SARS-CoV-2 transmission and to prevent future disease spread. There is no evidence that companion animals contribute to human infections with SARS-CoV-2; however, human-to-animal transmission and subsequent animal-to-animal transmission can produce viral shedding and increase the risk of infection. With the exception of farmed mink, the role of agricultural animals as a potential host for SARS-CoV-2 has remained poorly investigated. Considering the large number of livestock globally and the direct or indirect contact these animals have with humans, information pertaining to their susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2 and role in virus transmission is urgently needed.