SARS-CoV-2 in Namibian Dogs

Area of Science:

• One Health
• Veterinary Epidemiology
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the human-animal-environment interface in disease emergence.
• Initial concerns about pets spreading SARS-CoV-2 caused social anxiety.
• Limited research exists on companion animals in low-income African regions, where raising practices and contact patterns differ.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 in dogs in Namibian urban and rural areas.
• To assess the potential role of dogs in the transmission of SARS-CoV-2 within the human-animal interface.

Main Methods:

• An extensive molecular biology survey was conducted from March 2022 to September 2022.
• 500 dogs from urban and rural Namibian areas were tested for SARS-CoV-2.

Main Results:

• A low but not negligible SARS-CoV-2 prevalence of 1% (5 out of 500 dogs) was detected.
• A potential link between owner and dog infection was identified in only one case.
• No consistent evidence of pet-to-pet transmission was found, and owners generally reported no COVID-19 episodes.

Conclusions:

• While SARS-CoV-2 prevalence in Namibian dogs is low, it warrants attention.
• The findings support a precautionary approach, emphasizing further investigation into companion animal populations, particularly where close contact and susceptible populations exist.
• Understanding the role of companion animals in disease dynamics is crucial for public health.