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Review
. 2021 Apr;27(4):1015-1022.
doi: 10.3201/eid2704.203945.

Animal Reservoirs and Hosts for Emerging Alphacoronaviruses and Betacoronaviruses

Ria R Ghai, Ann Carpenter, Amanda Y Liew, Krystalyn B Martin, Meghan K Herring, Susan I Gerber, Aron J Hall, Jonathan M Sleeman, Sophie VonDobschuetz, Casey Barton Behravesh
Review

Animal Reservoirs and Hosts for Emerging Alphacoronaviruses and Betacoronaviruses

Ria R Ghai et al. Emerg Infect Dis. 2021 Apr.

Abstract

The ongoing global pandemic caused by coronavirus disease has once again demonstrated the role of the family Coronaviridae in causing human disease outbreaks. Because severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 was first detected in December 2019, information on its tropism, host range, and clinical manifestations in animals is limited. Given the limited information, data from other coronaviruses might be useful for informing scientific inquiry, risk assessment, and decision-making. We reviewed endemic and emerging infections of alphacoronaviruses and betacoronaviruses in wildlife, livestock, and companion animals and provide information on the receptor use, known hosts, and clinical signs associated with each host for 15 coronaviruses detected in humans and animals. This information can be used to guide implementation of a One Health approach that involves human health, animal health, environmental, and other relevant partners in developing strategies for preparedness, response, and control to current and future coronavirus disease threats.

Keywords: COVID-19; MERS-CoV; Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus; SARS-CoV-2; animal reservoirs; coronavirus disease; coronaviruses; hosts; respiratory infections; severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2; viruses; zoonoses.

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