Alliance for Pandemic Preparedness

June 3, 2021

SARS-CoV-2 Infections and Viral Isolations among Serially Tested Cats and Dogs in Households with Infected Owners in Texas, USA

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  • In a longitudinal study of 76 dogs and cats living with at least one SARS-CoV-2 infected human in Texas, 4 pets were PCR-positive for SARS-CoV-2, while 14 pets had detectable anti-SARS-CoV-2 neutralizing antibodies (including 2 of the 4 PCR-positive pets). Re-sampling showed persistent PCR positivity up to 25 days and sequencing of PCR samples showed viral genomes belonging to clades predominantly observed in human samples in Texas during the same period. Neutralizing activity among pets with detectable antibodies was relatively stable over 2-3 months of follow-up. 82% of infected pets were asymptomatic.

Hamer et al. (May 19, 2021). SARS-CoV-2 Infections and Viral Isolations among Serially Tested Cats and Dogs in Households with Infected Owners in Texas, USA. Viruses. https://doi.org/10.3390/v13050938