Abstract:
The prevalence of Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) in animals may only have begun to be appreciated. The disease is well characterized, but significant zoonotic sources, and thus, routes of transmission of MERS-CoV may yet be identified. In this article, we briefly review the animals that potentially harbour MERS-CoV.
Main Article:
We are still unsure of the full spectrum of animals that harbour Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) variants. Human MERS cases are mostly acquired in healthcare settings. However, one major reservoir of MERS may reside in the livestock that humans are surrounded by on a regular basis.
The most well defined and statistically significant source of animal-borne MERS-CoV originates from rare but direct contact between humans and camels. Contact with cattle is also described as a significant factor, but the virus has yet to be found in cows. In 2013, a single MERS-CoV PCR positive test was reported from a single bat. Distantly related CoVs have since been found in different bats, but none were MERS-CoV variants.
Known MERS-CoV-positive creatures are highlighted above, in red. Other animals that may be considered suspects because their cells support MERS-CoV replication in the laboratory or are known to express the MERS-CoV receptor (DPP4) are also shown. Some of the ways in which humans may acquire a rare MERS-CoV infection are listed underneath each animal.
More information is being uncovered on a daily basis. Stay tuned for the latest research on MERS and MERS-CoV, and the latest strategies to mitigate the spread.
References:
http://virologydownunder.blogspot.com.au/2015/11/updating-animal-to-do-list.html
[…] Significant zoonotic sources and routes of transmission of MERS-CoV may yet be identified. This article briefly reviews the animals that potentially harbour MERS-CoV. […]