The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) National Veterinary Services Laboratories recently confirmed the presence of COVID-19 in a Canada lynx at a zoo in Pennsylvania.
The discovery is the first case of a Canada lynx with the SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, in the country, a USDA press release said. Samples were ordered after the lynx showed symptoms of infection including coughing and lethargy.
“People with COVID-19 can spread the virus to animals during close contact,” the USDA said in the release. “It is important for people with suspected or confirmed COVID-19 to avoid contact with pets and other animals to protect them from possible infection.”
Several animals have been infected with SARS-CoV-2 globally, usually involving those who have had close contact with humans, the release said. However, the USDA insists that ongoing testing of animals is not advised.
“We are still learning about SARS-CoV-2 in animals,” the USDA said in the release. “Based on the information available, the risk of animals spreading the virus to people is considered to be low.”
The USDA will continue to examine animals who have been infected with the virus, the release said. This includes surveillance for the virus in animals under the American Rescue Plan framework with cases being forwarded to the World Organization for Animal Health.
