April 25, 2024

COVID-19 Confirmed in a Canada Lynx at a Pennsylvania Zoo

By USDA
December 23, 2021

USDA will continue to closely monitor cases of the infection in animals, will complete security for the virus in animals under the American Rescue Plan framework, and will report cases to the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE).
SARS-CoV-2 infections have actually been reported in numerous animal species worldwide, mainly in animals that had close contact with a person with COVID-19. At this time, routine testing of animals is not advised. State, Tribal, local, and territorial animal health and public health authorities will deal with USDA and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to make determinations about whether animals need to be checked for SARS-CoV-2, utilizing a One Health technique.
We are still learning about SARS-CoV-2 in animals. Based on the details available, the risk of animals spreading the infection to individuals is thought about to be low.
Individuals with COVID-19 can spread out the infection to animals during close contact. It is essential for individuals with suspected or verified COVID-19 to prevent contact with pets and other animals to secure them from possible infection.
To find out more about COVID-19 and animals and suggestions for animal owners and people who work around animals, visit https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/animals/pets-other-animals.html.

The United States Department of Agricultures (USDA) National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) today announced verification of SARS-CoV-2 (the infection that triggers COVID-19) in a Canada lynx at a zoo in Pennsylvania. This is the first Canada lynx verified with the SARS-CoV-2 infection in the United States.Samples were taken from the lynx after it revealed signs of infection including coughing and lethargy.
While USDA has actually previously announced each new species verified with the SARS-CoV-2 virus in the United States, progressing, these cases will be published on USDAs website and a separate announcement will not be provided. Confirmed cases in animals are posted at the USDA SARS-CoV-2 in Animals Dashboard.