Filenews 22 May 2021
"Research on dogs is one of many that draw effortless conclusions with dubious documentation," says the Cyprus Veterinary Association in a statement on the new research published in the scientific journal Clinical Infectious Disease, which states that a new form of coronavirus has been detected in dogs , very different from SARS-CoV-2, and examines whether it may pose a threat to humans. The announcement urges citizens not to abandon their pets based on speculation.
The entire announcement:
It has come to our attention from publications from Greek and Cypriot online and television media that refer to new research published in the scientific journal "Clinical Infectious Disease".
These reports have provoked a variety of reactions and unnecessary concern, as they claim, without sufficient evidence, that a new strain of coronavirus was found in a dog. The Cyprus Veterinary Association, the scientific body of veterinarians, would like to clarify the following:
• This research is one of many investigations that draw easy conclusions with dubious documentation. The research data of the scientific community should be interpreted with caution and it would be a good idea to consult the experts of each sector for their interpretation.
• So far there is limited evidence that pets can be infected with sars-cov-2 and no evidence that pet dogs or cats can be a source of infection for other animals or humans
Don't abandon your pets, based on speculation from anyone, during this difficult time we're all going through. Sars-COV-2 infection involves human-to-human transmission, which is also the main mode of transmission. Pets and productive animals do not appear to play a serious role in the spread of the virus.
The Veterinary World listens to the concerns of the public, is vigilant, informed and constantly informs while working to protect public health, public health and animal health.
