The role of pets in SARS-CoV-2 transmission: an exploratory analysis.

Authors :: Teixeira AIP
de Brito RN
Gontijo CC
Romero GAS
Ramalho WM
Haddad R
Noronha EF
de Araújo WN
Source :: Infection [Infection] 2023 Apr; Vol. 51 (2), pp. 455-458. Date of Electronic Publication: 2022 Jun 15.
Publication Year :: 2023
Abstract: Purpose: There is evidence that humans can transmit SARS-CoV-2 to cats and dogs. However, there is no evidence that they can transmit it back to humans or play any role in SARS-CoV-2 transmission. Here, we present an exploratory analysis on that matter.<br />Methods: We conducted a case-control study with participants with flu-like symptoms seeking care at a primary healthcare unit to be tested for COVID-19. They were asked if they owned pet cats and/or dogs in their residences, and this variable was evaluated as exposure.<br />Results: The odds ratio of "having dogs and/or cats in the residence" was 1.29 (95% CI 1.08-1.54) of "having only dogs and no cats" was 1.26 (1.05-1.52), and "no dogs and only cats" was 1.29 (0.95-1.75).<br />Conclusion: Having a cat/dog in the house can affect the risk of infection by SARS-CoV-2.<br /> (© 2022. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany.)