[Review] Coronaviruses in Wild Canids: A review of the literature

Abstract

The Coronaviridae is a ubiquitous viral family, capable of causing disease in domestic and wildlife species, in addition to substantial human disease as indicated by the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. The spillover of SARS-CoV-2 into wildlife and domestic species is an ongoing concern for both conservation and public health. Following the 2002 SARS-CoV outbreak, surveillance identified a related virus in raccoon dogs that was considered a potential intermediate host between infection in bats and humans. Two other coronaviruses circulate widely in domestic dogs: namely canine coronavirus (CCoV) and canine respiratory coronavirus, and may be transmitted to and amongst wild canids. Domestic dogs have also been identified as an infrequent host for SARS-CoV-2. The spillover of CCoV has been investigated in numerous wild canid populations, primarily using serology. Here, we review reports of coronaviruses in wild canids, helping provide a baseline for future disease surveillance.