The Omicron (B.1.1.529) SARS-CoV-2 variant of concern also affects companion animals

• DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.940710
• Publication Date: 2022-08-12T05:35:27Z
• Authors: Lidia Sánchez-Mor...; José M. Sánchez-V...; Marta Pérez-Sancho; Lucas Domínguez; Sandra Barroso-Ar...
• Keywords: 2019-20 coronavirus outbreak

The emergence of the Omicron variant (B.1. 1.529) has brought with it an increase in incidence SARS-CoV-2 disease. However, there is hardly any data on its companion animals. We have detected presence this new domestic animals (dogs and cats) living infected owners Spain. None RT-qPCR positive (10.13%) presented clinical signs viral loads were low. In addition, shedding RNA lasted a short period time Infection concern (VOC) was confirmed by sequencing. These outcomes suggest lower virulence cats dogs. They also demonstrate transmission from humans to highlight importance active surveillance as well genomic research detect VOCs or mutations associated animal hosts.