Health groups press for more wildlife SARS-CoV-2 tracking

In a joint statement today, three global health groups urged countries to prioritize monitoring SARS-CoV-2 in wildlife, given growing concerns that continued spread could create virus reservoirs in animals.In other developments, the number of world COVID-19 deaths passed 6 million, and China reported a spike in local COVID-19 cases.Steps to curb transmissionThe statement on animal surveillance came from the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE), and the World Health Organization (WHO).

They said though wildlife doesn't play a key transmission role in humans, SARS-CoV-2 spread in animal populations can affect their health and lead to the emergence of new variants.So far, farmed mink and pet hamsters have shown the capacity to infect humans, and scientists are reviewing a possible case of transmission between white-tailed deer and a human.

And in the United States, large numbers of white-tail deer have been shown to carry the virus, underscoring concerns about establishment of an animal reservoir.The groups urged countries to adopt new steps aimed at those in close contact with wildlife, especially hunters and butchers, and the public.

For example, they said people working closely with wildlife should be trained on how to reduce the risk of transmission between people in animals, such as using personal protective equipment and observing good hygiene practices around animals.Also, they recommend that hunters avoid tracking sick animals or harvesting ones that are found dead.