SARS-CoV-2 is transmitted via contact and via the air between ferrets

• DOI: 10.1038/s41467-020-17367-2
• Publication Date: 2020-07-08T10:03:03Z
• Authors: Mathilde Richard; Adinda Kok; Dennis de Meulder; Theo M. Bestebroer; Mart M. Lamers; Nisreen M. A. Okba; Martje Fentener v...; Barry Rockx; Bart L. Haagmans; Marion P. G. Koop...; Ron A. M. Fouchier; Sander Herfst
• Keywords: Viral Shedding; Social distance; Social contact; 2019-20 coronavirus outbreak; Coronavirus

Abstract SARS-CoV-2, a coronavirus that emerged in late 2019, has spread rapidly worldwide, and information about the modes of transmission SARS-CoV-2 among humans is critical to apply appropriate infection control measures slow its spread. Here we show transmitted efficiently via direct contact air (via respiratory droplets and/or aerosols) between ferrets, 1 3 days 7 after exposure respectively. The pattern virus shedding indirect recipient ferrets similar inoculated infectious isolated from all positive animals, showing are productively infected either route. This study provides experimental evidence robust air, supporting implementation community-level social distancing currently applied many countries world informing decisions on healthcare settings.