SARS-CoV-2 in mink

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Coronavirus. SARS-CoV-2

SARS-CoV-2 in Mink

SARS-CoV-2 in mink refers to the transmission and spread of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) among mink populations. Mink are small, carnivorous mammals that are farmed for their fur. The virus was first reported to have infected mink in the Netherlands in April 2020.

Background[edit | edit source]

SARS-CoV-2 is a novel coronavirus that causes the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in humans. The virus is primarily transmitted between people through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. However, it can also infect animals, including mink.

Transmission to Mink[edit | edit source]

Mink are highly susceptible to SARS-CoV-2, and the virus can spread rapidly within mink farms. Infected mink can show symptoms such as respiratory distress, coughing, and lethargy. The virus can be transmitted from infected mink to other mink in close proximity.

Human to Mink Transmission[edit | edit source]

The primary source of SARS-CoV-2 in mink is believed to be human-to-mink transmission. Infected farm workers can unknowingly transmit the virus to mink through close contact. This has led to outbreaks of the virus in mink farms in several countries.

Public Health Concerns[edit | edit source]

The transmission of SARS-CoV-2 to mink is a public health concern due to the potential for the virus to mutate in mink populations and potentially spread back to humans. Mutations in the virus could impact the effectiveness of vaccines and therapeutics developed for COVID-19.

Control Measures[edit | edit source]

To prevent the spread of SARS-CoV-2 in mink populations, culling of infected mink has been implemented in some countries. Strict biosecurity measures are also being enforced in mink farms to reduce the risk of transmission between mink and humans.

Conclusion[edit | edit source]

SARS-CoV-2 transmission in mink highlights the complex interplay between human and animal health. Monitoring and controlling the spread of the virus in mink populations is essential to prevent further mutations and potential spillover back to humans.

WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD