Researchers have identified what must be the first Brazilian cat officially infected by Sars-CoV-2, a virus that causes Covid-19 in humans.
The fact is not surprising in the universe of the new coronavirus. There are already reports, in other parts of the world, of animals in which Sars-CoV-2 was detected.
But don't be worried. There is no evidence that domestic animals, such as cats and dogs, are an important form of transmission to people.
It seems that humans infect animals, according to information from the FDA (drug and food control agency, with a similar function to that of Anvisa) and the CDC (Centers for Disease Control), both from the United States.
In cases of Sars-CoV-2 detected in domestic animals, close contact had occurred between the pet and a person infected with Covid-19.
The Brazilian cat with Sars-CoV-2 - and without symptoms - is from Cuiabá, in Mato Grosso. He contracted the virus from his owners, a couple and a small child, who were infected at a family party in September. The couple became ill, but the child had an asymptomatic condition, according to the report.
Translated by Kiratiana Freelon