Pet Dogs Also Infected with COVID-19... Could This Be the First Case of Human-Animal Transmission?

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Beijing=Special Correspondent Park Sun-mi] Hong Kong authorities have confirmed the infection of a pet dog belonging to a COVID-19 confirmed patient.

On the 5th, the South China Morning Post (SCMP) reported that Hong Kong authorities also confirmed that a Pomeranian pet dog of a COVID-19 confirmed patient was infected with COVID-19.

The authorities stated, "The test results of the confirmed patient's pet dog showed a positive reaction, and since the infection was confirmed, the dog is currently in quarantine." They added, "We consulted with experts from the University of Hong Kong and the World Organisation for Animal Health regarding the results, and there was a unanimous opinion that the pet dog's infection is a 'low-level infection' and could be a case of transmission between humans and animals. Additional tests will be conducted."

However, some infectious disease experts have expressed skepticism about Hong Kong authorities confirming the infection without a blood test, noting that the pet dog tested weakly positive for COVID-19 through samples taken from the mouth, nose, and anus.

There are also opinions that the pet dog's infection is not at a level that could spread COVID-19 transmission. The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) stated, "The information provided shows that the pet dog had a low-level infection result, but the dog did not show symptoms of COVID-19. The public should know that there is still no evidence that animals can transmit the COVID-19 virus to humans."

Earlier, the World Health Organization (WHO) stated that there is no evidence yet that pets such as dogs and cats can be infected with COVID-19. However, it recommended washing hands with soap after contact with pets.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.