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First Evidence of Natural SARS-CoV-2 Infection in Domestic Rabbits
Matthieu Fritz1, Daphné de Riols de Fonclare1, Déborah Garcia1
1Maladies Infectieuses et Vecteurs, Ecologie, Génétique, Evolution et Contrôle (MIVEGEC), University Montpellier, IRD, CNRS, 34394 Montpellier, France.
Researchers found the first evidence of natural SARS-CoV-2 infection in pet rabbits in France. Testing revealed a low seroprevalence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 antibodies in the rabbit population.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Infectious Diseases
- Zoonotic Research
Background:
- Emerging infectious diseases necessitate understanding host range.
- Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has demonstrated broad host tropism.
- The potential for SARS-CoV-2 spillover into domestic animal populations requires investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in pet rabbits in France.
- To determine if natural SARS-CoV-2 infection has occurred in this animal population.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 144 pet rabbits from France was analyzed.
- Samples were collected between November 2020 and June 2021.
- Antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 were detected using a microsphere immunoassay.
Main Results:
- The study identified the first evidence of natural SARS-CoV-2 infection in rabbits.
- A low seroprevalence of 0.7% to 1.4% was observed.
- This indicates limited but present circulation of the virus in the studied rabbit population.
Conclusions:
- Pet rabbits can be naturally infected with SARS-CoV-2.
- The findings highlight the importance of monitoring domestic animals for zoonotic pathogens.
- Further research is needed to understand the implications of SARS-CoV-2 in rabbits.
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