Covid Variant Found In Dogs And Cats With Suspected Myocarditis

According to a new study published in the Veterinary Record, the alpha variant of SARS-CoV-2, which was initially found in southeast England and is popularly known as the UK variation or B.1.1.7, can infect pets.

Due to its greater transmissibility and infectivity, this variety quickly outcompeted pre-existing forms in England.

The study, which describes the first cases of cats and dogs infected with the alpha form, emphasizes the potential of SARS-CoV-2 infection in companion animals. The study’s primary author was Luca Ferasin, DVM, PhD, of The Ralph Veterinary Referral Centre in the United Kingdom.

Luca stated that atypical clinical signs marked by significant heart abnormalities are also observed, which is a well-known consequence in people who are infected with COVID-19 but has never been seen in pets before. COVID-19 infection in dogs, on the other hand, is a relatively uncommon occurrence and based on the studies, it appears that the virus is transmitted from humans to pets rather than vice versa.

Source: NDTV