Serological evidence of SARS-CoV-2 infection in companion animals in Pakistan: a cross sectional survey
ABSTRACT
Background:
Coronaviruses infect both humans and animals. One of these viruses, SARS-CoV-2, associated with COVID-19 pandemic, is believed to be zoonotic in nature with its origins from live animal markets in, Wuhan, China. The virus has been reported to transmit form humans to other animals and within animal species both naturally and experimentally in many countries. Being a novel virus, studies are needed to understand how it affects animals, possible spread to humans and other potential roles in the epidemiology of COVID-19 following a one health approach.
Objective:
The objective of this survey was to determine the among companion animals (pet dogs and cats) in twin cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi, Pakistan.
Methods:
We conducted a cross-sectional sero-survey among companion animals (pet dogs and cats) in twin cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi, Pakistan. The study was conducted during November 2020 to April 2021, coinciding with end of 2nd wave and peak of 3rd wave of COVID-19 in Pakistan. We collected serum samples from 83 animals (68 dogs and 15 cats) from 10 small animal clinics and surgeries in twin cities. The data were collected on the species, age, sex, clinical history, travel history and a confirmation of COVID-19 among the owners or their families. presented with various clinical history. The samples were tested by ID Screen® SARS-CoV-2 double antigen multi-species ELISA developed by D.Vet, France.
Results:
A combined seroprevalence of COVID-19 among these companion animals of 7.23% (6/83, 95%CI; 2.7%-15.07%) was found. Further, the seroprevalence of COVID-19 among dogs was 7.35% (5/68, 95%CI; 2.43%-16.33%) and 6.67% (1/15, 95%CI; 0.17%-31.95%). Both species were found similarly susceptible to COVID-19 (OR=1.11, 95%CI; 0.12-10.27, p=0.92). Animal in families with a history of COVID-19 among owners were more likely to be seropositive for SARS-CoV-2 (OR= 11.8, 95%CI; 1.93-71.89, p=0.002).
Conclusions:
The results suggest a possible transmission of SARS-CoV-2 from pet owners to their companion animals. However, further studies may be needed to evaluate this hypothesis and the role of pets as potential reservoirs for SARS-CoV-2 infection for humans and other animals.
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