First detection of an Italian human-to-cat outbreak of SARS-CoV-2 Alpha variant – lineage B.1.1.7

• DOI: 10.1016/j.onehlt.2021.100295
• Publication Date: 2021-07-23T12:43:27Z
• Authors: Roberto Zoccola; Chiara Beltramo; Gabriele Magris; Simone Peletto; Pierluigi Acutis; Elena Bozzetta; Slobodanka Radovic; Francesco Zappulla; Anna Maria Porzio; Maria Silvia Gennero; Alessandro Dondo; Chiara Pasqualini; Bartolomeo Griglio; Angelo Ferrari; Giuseppe Ru; Maria Goria
• Keywords: Lineage (genetic); Betacoronavirus; Coronavirus; Alpha (finance)

The emergence of new SARS-CoV-2 variants and their rapid spread pose a threat to both human animal health may conceal unknown risks. This report describes an Italian human-to-cat outbreak lineage B.1.1.7 (the Alpha variant) . On March 7th, 2021, approximately ten days after COVID-19 appeared in the family, onset respiratory signs cat by COVID-19-affected owners led in-depth diagnostic investigation, combining clinical serological data with rt-qPCR-based virus detection whole genome sequencing. variant was confirmed first few later that then monitored weekly: course similar one-week lag time cat. In addition, based on comparative analysis sequences from our study 200 random cases variant, familial cluster confirmed. temporal sequence along genomic support human-to-animal transmission. Such event emphasizes importance studying circulation dynamics humans animals better understand prevent potential spillover risks or unwarranted alerts involving pet populations.