Molecular and serological surveillance of SARS-CoV-2 in companion and food animals, USA

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Project Abstract/Summary Molecular and serological surveillance of SARS-CoV-2 in companion and food animals, USA Monitoring SARS-CoV-2 infections in animals is crucial for better understanding the virus and its potential for transmission between species. The virus has already been shown to infect a range of animals, including minks, dogs, and cats. By monitoring animal infections, potential reservoirs of the virus can be identified and new strains that may be more transmissible or virulent can be prevented. Additionally, monitoring animal infections ensures the safety of both animal and human populations by identifying and controlling infections in animals. In this study, we will perform PCR and ELISAs to detect SARS-CoV-2 virus and antibodies in nationwide collected dog samples (n=800), cat samples (n=800), and in horse (n=200) and cattle (n=200) samples from Alabama. SARS-CoV-2 Reverse- Transcription FRET-PCR will be performed to detect the virus, followed by DNA sequencing and whole-genome sequencing. The ID Screen® SARS-CoV-2 Double Antigen ELISA and SARS-CoV-2 Surrogate Virus Neutralization Test (sVNT) will be used to detect antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 infection, and positive and questionable samples will be sent to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) for SARS-CoV-2 virus neutralization tests to confirm results. Monitoring animal populations for SARS-CoV-2 infections is essential to prevent the spread of the virus to humans and identify potential reservoirs of the virus. This study will also help to understand the epidemiology of SARS-CoV-2 in dogs, cats, and horses, as well as food animals in the USA.