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Probable transmission of SARS-CoV-2 from an African lion to zoo employees

Siegrist, A. A.; Richardson, K. L.; Ghai, R. R.; Pope, B.; Yeadon, J.; Culp, B.; Barton Behravesh, C.; Liu, L.; Brown, J. A.; Boyer, L.

2023-01-31 epidemiology
10.1101/2023.01.29.23285159 medRxiv
Show abstract

Animal to human transmission of SARS-CoV-2 has not previously been reported in a zoo setting. A vaccinated African lion with physical limitations requiring hand feeding tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 after development of respiratory signs. Zoo employees were screened, monitored prospectively for development of symptoms, then re-screened as indicated, with confirmation by RT-PCR and whole-genome virus sequencing when possible. Trace-back investigation narrowed the source of infection to one of five people. Three exposed employees subsequently developed symptoms, two with viral genomes identical to the lions. Forward contact tracing investigation confirmed probable lion-to-human transmission. Close contact with large cats is a risk factor for bidirectional zoonotic SARS-CoV-2 transmission that should be considered when occupational health and biosecurity practices at zoos are designed and implemented. SARS-CoV-2 rapid testing and detection methods in big cats and other susceptible animals should be developed and validated to facilitate timely implementation of One Health investigations.

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