Study Finds Widespread Sars-CoV-2 in Virginia Wildlife
Study from Virginia Tech Raises Concerns About Virus Transmission Between Animals and Humans
Raccoons Among Six Animal Species Found to Carry Virus
A recent study conducted by researchers at Virginia Tech has revealed the widespread presence of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, among wildlife in Virginia. The study, published in the journal "Emerging Infectious Diseases," analyzed nearly 4,000 samples from various animal species commonly found in the state.
Researchers detected SARS-CoV-2 in six species: raccoons, white-tailed deer, striped skunks, coyotes, gray foxes, and Eastern cottontail rabbits. Raccoons exhibited the highest prevalence of the virus, with nearly 15% of the samples testing positive.
"Our findings suggest that SARS-CoV-2 is circulating widely among wildlife in Virginia," said Dr. Nicole Nemeth, lead author of the study. "This raises concerns about the potential for transmission between animals and humans, as well as the long-term consequences for wildlife populations."
The study highlights the need for continued surveillance and monitoring of SARS-CoV-2 in wildlife to better understand the dynamics of the virus and mitigate its potential impact on both human and animal health.
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