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SARS-CoV-2 Outbreak among Malayan Tigers and Humans, Tennessee, USA, 2020
Emerging Infectious Diseases
|March 23, 2022
Summary
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infected three Malayan tigers in a Tennessee zoo. The investigation confirmed natural tiger-to-tiger transmission and viral genetic changes during passage.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Virology
- Zoological Medicine
Background:
- Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has been detected in various animal species.
- Understanding viral transmission dynamics in non-domesticated animals is crucial for public health and conservation efforts.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate an outbreak of SARS-CoV-2 in Malayan tigers (Panthera tigris jacksoni) at a zoological facility.
- To identify the mode of transmission and characterize viral genetic changes in infected tigers.
- To provide comprehensive data on the epidemiology, environment, and genomics of SARS-CoV-2 in this susceptible population.
Main Methods:
- Epidemiological investigation of the tiger enclosure and potential exposures.
- Environmental sampling for SARS-CoV-2.
- Collection of respiratory samples from affected tigers for viral isolation and genetic sequencing.
- Genomic sequencing of viral isolates to track mutations and transmission pathways.
Main Results:
- Confirmation of SARS-CoV-2 infection in three Malayan tigers.
- Evidence of naturally occurring tiger-to-tiger transmission within the zoo.
- Identification of specific genetic sequence changes in the virus following passage between tigers.
- Detailed epidemiological and environmental data correlating with viral spread.
Conclusions:
- Malayan tigers are susceptible to SARS-CoV-2 infection, with demonstrated efficient tiger-to-tiger transmission.
- Viral evolution and genetic mutation can occur during transmission within a susceptible animal population.
- This study highlights the importance of monitoring wildlife and zoo animals for zoonotic pathogens and understanding interspecies transmission.
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