Paguma Research Articles

First record of non-flying mammalian contributors to pollination in a tropical montane forest in Asia.

This study aims to identify the flower visitors of Mucuna thailandica (Fabaceae), endemic plant species in montane forests in Thailand, to determine their potential pollinators. The genus Mucuna produces papilionaceous flowers and has an explosive flower‐opening step. Explosive opening rapidly exposes stamens and pistil from keel petals and releases pollen. The flower of this species depends completely on animals to perform this step, essential for pollination success. Using a camera trap survey, we revealed that non‐flying mammals, such as squirrels (Callosciurus sp.) and masked palm civets (Paguma larvata), opened flowers explosively. Thus, these mammals contribute to the pollination of M. thailandica. This is the first report of non‐flying mammals contributing to pollination in montane forests in tropical Asia.

Dual ecological functions of scatter-hoarding rodents: pollinators and seed dispersers of Mucuna sempervirens (Fabaceae).

Double mutualism, that is, pollination and seed dispersal of the same plant species mediated by the same animal partners, is important but remains elusive in nature. Recently, rodent species were found as key pollinators (i.e. explosive openers) for some Mucuna species in (sub)tropical Asia, but no evidence has shown whether and how these rodents could also act as legitimate seed dispersers via scatter-hoarding for those producing large seeds. Here, my aim was to test the hypothesis that scatter-hoarding rodents could act as double mutualists for both pollination and seed dispersal of the same Mucuna species, that is, Mucuna sempervirens (Fabaceae). Based on camera-trapping survey at 2 locations with or without squirrel presence in the Dujiangyan subtropical forests, Southwest China, 7 mammals and birds were identified as explosive openers for M. sempervirens flowers, but Leopoldamys edwardsi (rats) and Paguma larvata (civets) were the main pollinators at the squirrel-absent site, while Callosciurus erythraeus (squirrels) were the main pollinators at the squirrel-present site. By tracking the fate of individually-tagged seeds over 5 years at each site, I provide the first evidence for seed-eating rodents as legitimate seed dispersers via scatter-hoarding of seeds in this world-wide plant genus, although dispersal services were slightly reduced at squirrel-absent site. More importantly, the dual roles of scatter-hoarding rodents as key pollinators and seed dispersers for the same Mucuna species have shown a clear relationship of double mutualism, and their key services may be essential for population conservation of these Mucuna species in human-disturbed landscapes.

Insight Into an Outbreak of Canine Distemper Virus Infection in Masked Palm Civets in China.

In August 2019, a suspected outbreak of canine distemper was observed in a masked palm civet farm that also received stray civets and rescued wild civets in Henan Province of China. A virulent canine distemper virus (CDV) strain, named HN19, from vaccinated masked palm civets was the etiologic agent identified in this outbreak using RT-PCR and sequencing of the complete genome. Serological analysis indicated a lower positive rate of CDV-neutralizing antibody in wild civets than in captive civets. Phylogenetic analysis of viral hemagglutinin (H) and the complete genome showed high identities with Rockborn-like strains at the nucleotide (98.7~99.72%) and the closest nucleotide similarity with a strain that killed lesser pandas in China in 1997, but low identities with America-1 strains (vaccine strains). Most importantly, one distinct amino acid exchange in the H protein at position 540 Asp → Gly (D540G), which confers CDV with an improved ability to adapt and utilize the human receptor, was observed in HN19. This study represents the first reported outbreak of a Rockborn-like CDV strain infection in masked palm civets in China. Based on this report, the existence of Rockborn-like strains in Chinese wild animals may not only cause immune failure in captive animals, but may also confer increased zoonotic potential.

Development and validation of simultaneous identification of 26 mammalian and poultry species by a multiplex assay.

A multiplex PCR assay was developed to simultaneously identify 22 mammalian species (alpaca, Asiatic black bear, Bactrian camel, brown rat, cat, cattle, common raccoon, dog, European rabbit, goat, horse, house mouse, human, Japanese badger, Japanese wild boar, masked palm civet, pig, raccoon dog, red fox, sheep, Siberian weasel, and sika deer) and four poultry species (chicken, domestic turkey, Japanese quail, and mallard), even from a biological sample containing a DNA mixture of multiple species. The assay was designed to identify species through multiplex PCR and capillary electrophoresis, with a combination of amplification of a partial region of the mitochondrial D-loop by universal primer sets and a partial region of the cytochrome b (cyt b) gene by species-specific primer sets. The assay was highly sensitive, with a detection limit of 100 copies of mitochondrial DNA. The assay's ability to identify species from complex DNA mixtures was demonstrated using an experimental sample consisting of 10 species. Efficacy, accuracy, and reliability of the assay were validated for use in forensic analysis with the guidelines of Scientific Working Group on DNA Analysis Methods (SWGDAM). The multiplex PCR assay developed in this study enables cost-effective, highly sensitive, and simultaneous species identification without massively parallel sequencing (MPS) platforms. Thus, the technique described is straightforward and suitable for routine forensic investigations.

Molecular-Based Detection of Enterocytozoon bieneusi in Farmed Masked Palm Civets (Paguma larvata) in Hainan, China: A High-Prevalence, Specificity, and Zoonotic Potential of ITS Genotypes.

Enterocytozoon bieneusi is a microsporidian and zoonotic species. This study investigated the prevalence and distribution of E. bieneusi genotypes in farmed masked palm civets using nested PCR, as well as assessed their zoonotic potential by phylogenetic analysis of the ITS region of the rRNA region. Here, we collected 251 fecal specimens from farmed masked palm civets (Paguma larvata) from the Hainan Island, China. In total, 128 of 251 samples were positive for E. bieneusi, with an average infection rate of 51.0%. Seventeen genotypes were identified including 12 known genotypes—HNR-VI (n = 56), SHR1 (n = 45), SHW7 (n = 6), KIN-1 (n = 3), D (n = 3), New1 (n = 3), EbpC (n = 2), CHC5 (n = 1), CHG19 (n = 1), CHN4 (n = 1), EbpA (n = 1), and Henan-III (n = 1)—and five novel genotypes (HNPL-I to HNPL-II; one each). Phylogenetic analysis categorized these genotypes into two groups. Thirteen of them were members of the zoonotic group 1, and the remaining four genotypes were in group 12. This study has shown that the infection rates of E. bieneusi in masked palm civets from Hainan were relatively high and provide baseline data to control and prevent microsporidiosis in farm-related communities. Therefore, infections in masked palm civets with zoonotic genotypes D, EbpC, CHN4, EbpA, KIN-1, and Henan-III should be considered potential threats to public health.

Common occurrence of Enterocytozoon bieneusi genotypes SHR1 and PL2 in farmed masked palm civet (Paguma larvata) in China.

Enterocytozoon bieneusi is a common pathogen in a broad range of vertebrate hosts. To assess the prevalence and genotypes of E. bieneusi in farmed masked palm civet (Paguma larvata), 537 fecal samples from seven provinces in China were tested by nested PCR of the polymorphic internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region. Among of all the samples, 60.0% (325/531) were positive for E. bieneusi, with the highest prevalence in Hebei province (85.0%). Sequence analysis revealed the presence of nine E. bieneusi genotypes, including four known genotypes (SHR1, PL2, PL4, CHG19) and five novel genotypes (PL12 to PL16). Genotypes SHR1 and PL2 were the most common genotypes in seven provinces. Phylogenetic analysis showed that three genotypes (CHG19, PL4 and PL16) were distributed to Group 1, and six genotypes (SHR1, PL2, PL12, PL13, PL14 and PL15) formed a novel clade, which was named group 12. Findings highlight the need to conduct additional research to elucidate the epidemiology of E. bieneusi in farmed masked palm civet.

Behavioral response of wild mammals to pre-existing and artificial latrines of raccoon dogs in northeastern Japan

Abstract In this study, we reveal the behavior of raccoon dogs and other mammals on two types of latrines: already-existing latrines in the field and artificial latrines created from the feces of a captive individual. From September to November 2019, we used camera traps at already-known (eight sites), and artificial latrines (four sites), and recorded the mammalian species that visited, their behavior types, and the duration of time spent at the latrines. Our camera traps detected eight species visits, including raccoon dogs, masked palm civets, and rodents (Muridae). In raccoon dogs, sniffing, urination, defecation, and passing were observed, and the numbers of defecation and passing occurrences were significantly higher in the already-existing latrines. The duration time of the raccoon dogs was significantly longer at the artificial latrine; however, the time decreased as days elapsed. Masked palm civets frequently visited the artificial latrines, where the number of rubbings was significantly higher. The Muridae did not differ in their proportion of foraging behavior between the two latrine types, indicating that both were used as feeding sites without distinction. The results of this study indicate that raccoon dog latrines affect not only raccoon dogs but also other mammals.

Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (SARS-CoV-1) and Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV) infections in pregnancy – An overview

Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (SARS-CoV-1) and Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV) infections, like most other viruses that affect the respiratory tract can cause severe maternal illness and adverse pregnancy outcomes. They are not only highly transmissible (acquired through droplets), but Host reservoirs such as dromedary camels for MERS-CoV and masked palm civet for SARS-CoV-1 are critical links in the onset of outbreaks. Clinically they present with flu-like symptoms and therefore a high index of suspicion is required to ensure timely diagnosis and tailored management. Although there are not many reported series on these infections in pregnancy they seem to be associated with an increased risk of preterm delivery and maternal mortality. Diagnosis is made by PCR from nasopharyngeal swabs. There are currently no effective anti-viral agents for these viruses but following infections various agents have been administered to patients. The most important aspect of management should be early identification of deterioration and intensive support and prevention of transmission. Our understanding of the evidence of the impact of both infections on pregnancies suggests the potential for future repeat outbreaks, hence the importance of maintaining vigilance across healthcare systems.

Molecular Characteristics of Carnivore protoparvovirus 1 with High Sequence Similarity between Wild and Domestic Carnivores in Taiwan.

Carnivore protoparvovirus 1 (CPPV-1) is a DNA virus causing gastrointestinal disease and immunosuppression in various terrestrial carnivores. Domestic dogs and cats are considered the primary CPPV-1 reservoirs. The habitat overlap of wild carnivores and free-roaming dogs increases the threat of CPPV-1 transmission between them. This study explored the CPPV-1 distribution among wild carnivores in Taiwan through PCR screening and compared the partial capsid protein (VP2) gene sequences from wild and domestic carnivores. In total, 181 samples were collected from 32 masked palm civets (Paguma larvata), 63 Chinese ferret badgers (Melogale moschata), and 86 crab-eating mongooses (Herpestes urva), from 2015 to 2019 were screened for CPPV-1. The average prevalence of CPPV-1 was 17.7% (32/181), with the highest prevalence in masked palm civets (37.5%). In addition, a masked palm civet was coinfected with two CPPV-1 strains. Among the 33 partial VP2 gene sequences, 23 were identical to the sequences amplified from domestic dogs and cats in Asia, and the remaining 10 were identified for the first time. This study supported the circulation of CPPV-1 strains with the same genomic features as domestic carnivores that are also in wild carnivores from the same environment in Taiwan by molecular data. Therefore, further population control and health management of free-roaming domestic carnivores are recommended.

A non-invasive heart rate measurement system using laser Doppler blood flowmetry with husbandry training of the masked palm civet (Parguma larvata)

Husbandry training (HT) is done to facilitate healthcare, treatment or animal research with zoo animals. At the Omuta City Zoo, HT of masked palm civets (Parguma larvata) is used to aid the taking of blood samples. With HT the burden on the animal can be remarkably reduced without the use of anesthesia. However, it is necessary to devise a blood sampling method using HT that reduces stress on the animals as much as possible. To devise such a stress-reducing method, quantitative assessments related to stress are needed. As heart rate increases with stress, we attempted to devise a non-invasive method for measuring heart rate. The attachment of sensors not only stresses the animal but also requires much effort from keepers. Therefore, a laser Doppler blood flowmeter (LDF) was embedded in the HT board, and an LDF and an algorithm to eliminate body motion artifacts were used in measurement attempts. As a result, a clear pulse wave was detected in some sections, and heart rate was calculated from the pulse wave.

Ecological traps and boosters of ixodid ticks: The differing ecological roles of two sympatric introduced mammals

The raccoon (Procyon lotor) and masked palm civet (Paguma larvata) are introduced species in Japan and have become abundant in human-inhabited environments. We surveyed tick infestations and tick ingestion by introduced raccoons and masked palm civets captured in Hayama, Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan between November 2018 and January 2020. We collected ticks from the body surface of animals and tick capitula from the gastrointestinal contents. We collected 18,357 ticks identified as Haemaphysalis flava, Haemaphysalis megaspinosa, Haemaphysalis longicornis, Ixodes ovatus, Ixodes tanuki, and Amblyomma testudinarium from 58 of 60 raccoons and 152 ticks, identified as H. flava and I. tanuki, from 16 of 41 masked palm civets. Furthermore, we obtained 16 capitula from 12 % of raccoons and 106 capitula from 63 % of masked palm civets. Raccoons harbored a greater number of ticks (all stages of H. flava and adult I. tanuki) compared with masked palmed civets, whereas the latter species ingested a greater number of nymphal and larval ticks. The results of this study extend our understanding of the ecological roles of two introduced wildlife species. The raccoon may act as an ecological booster, thereby increasing the success rate of bloodmeals and reproduction in ticks. In contrast, the masked palm civet may act as an ecological trap by effectively grooming to remove ticks and prevent bloodmeals.

Features of Claw Marks of Masked Palm Civets: Effects of Using Claw Marks to Survey Raccoons

We examined whether masked palm civets (Paguma larvata) would leave claw marks on wooden poles by having them climb poles experimentally. We also examined the features of civet's claw marks that are generally mistaken for claw marks of racoons (Procyon lotor). The test sessions included two conditions: square and round poles of different sizes (10, 15, and 20 cm). Civets climbed wooden poles regardless of the shape and usually left short claw marks on the pole surface. The claw marks that are generally mistaken for those of a raccoon (five fingers, claw marks over 4 cm in width and over 1 cm in length) occurred in 7.6% of tracks with the 10-cm square pole, 4.1% of tracks with the 15-cm square pole, and 0.6% of tracks with the 20-cm square pole. In the round pole experiments, claw marks generally mistaken for those of a raccoon occurred in 0.0% of tracks with the 10-cm diameter pole, 0.4% of tracks with the 15-cm diameter pole, and 2.1% with 20-cm diameter pole. These results suggest that the presence of masked palm civets would have little impact on the use of claw marks to assess raccoon distribution.

Distribution of Chinese pangolin (Manis pentadactyla) in Nagarjun forest of Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, Nepal

The Chinese pangolin (Manis pentadactyla) is one of the world’s critically endangered species, and its distribution is little known in Nepal. This study aimed at understanding the distribution of Chinese pangolin in Nagarjun forest of Shivapuri-Nagarjun National Park, Nepal from September 2017 to May 2018. A total of 15 infrared cameras were used, these were installed randomly in the forest. Only three cameras at three different locations were able to capture photographs of Chinese pangolin. Altogether, three events, comprising 21 still photos of pangolin, their sign and other mammal species in the area were recorded. In addition, 94 pangolin burrows were noticed in the study area. The distribution of Chinese pangolin is influenced by the food, tree canopy and aspect of the area. Majority of the active burrows were found near to feeding burrows where ants and termite’s nest were found abundantly. In addition to Chinese pangolin, the study was able to capture twelve mammalian species including masked palm civet (Paguma larvata) and yellow-throated marten (Martes flavigula). These two species were often seen to enter or try to enter the active burrows of pangolins. The results suggest that Nagarjun Forest serves an important role in mammal conservation with high mammalian biodiversity.

Molecular characterization and zoonotic potential of Enterocytozoon bieneusi, Giardia duodenalis and Cryptosporidium sp. in farmed masked palm civets (Paguma larvata) in southern China

BackgroundMasked palm civets are known to play an important role in the transmission of some zoonotic pathogens. However, the distribution and zoonotic potential of Enterocytozoon bieneusi, Giardia duodenalis and Cryptosporidium spp. in these animals remain unclear.MethodsA total of 889 fecal specimens were collected in this study from farmed masked palm civets in Hainan, Guangdong, Jiangxi and Chongqing, southern China, and analyzed for these pathogens by nested PCR and DNA sequencing.ResultsAltogether, 474 (53.3%), 34 (3.8%) and 1 (0.1%) specimens were positive for E. bieneusi, G. duodenalis and Cryptosporidium sp., respectively. Sequence analysis revealed the presence of 11 novel E. bieneusi genotypes named as PL1–PL11 and two known genotypes Peru8 and J, with PL1 and PL2 accounting for 90% of E. bieneusi infections. Phylogenetically, PL4, PL5, PL9, PL10 and PL11 were clustered into Group 1, while PL1, PL2, PL3, PL6, PL7 and PL8 were clustered into Group 2. Assemblage B (n = 33) and concurrence of B and D (n = 1) were identified among G. duodenalis-positive animals. Further multilocus genotyping of assemblage B has revealed that all 13 multilocus genotypes in civets formed a cluster related to those from humans. The Cryptosporidium isolate from one civet was identified to be genetically related to the Cryptosporidium bamboo rat genotype II.ConclusionsTo the best of our knowledge, this first report of enteric protists in farmed masked palm civets suggests that these animals might be potential reservoirs of zoonotic E. bieneusi and G. duodenalis genotypes.

Introduction and Expansion History of the Masked Palm Civet, Paguma larvata, in Japan, Revealed by Mitochondrial DNA Control Region and Cytochrome b Analysis

The masked palm civet (Paguma larvata) in Japan is considered as an alien species; however, the details on introduction routes to Japan and the expansion history are still unclear. In the present study, to further solve these questions, we analyzed the mitochondrial DNA control region (523 base-pairs) of 226 individuals from Japan and Taiwan, and identified 13 haplotypes, which are phylogenetically closely related to each other. Then, we combined the present control region data with the previously reported cytochrome b sequences, and found multiple haplotypes in Shikoku, Gunma, and Tokyo. The population in Shikoku was formed by several genetic lineages, one of which was not found in other areas, indicating the differentiation of the Shikoku population from those in Central Honshu. In addition, animals with the major cytochrome b haplotype in Eastern Japan in the previous study were found to have three different haplotypes in control region. The results strongly show multiple introduced routes of P. larvata in Eastern Japan. Our study much contributes to further understanding of the expansion history of P. larvata on the Japanese islands, in conjunction with previous genetic data.

Phylogenetic relationships of Strongyloides species in carnivore hosts.

Strongyloides stercoralis is a parasitic nematode and a major pathogen responsible for human strongyloidiasis. The presence of this species in the dog population has led to an interest in studying the phylogenetic relationships among Strongyloides spp. in carnivore hosts. In the present study, Strongyloides spp. from various carnivore hosts (raccoon, Japanese badger, Siberian weasel, raccoon dog, masked palm civet, and domestic cat) were sought. Except for civets, Strongyloides spp. were identified in all host species. Based on 18S rDNA sequences, nine OTUs (operational taxonomy units) were identified. Molecular phylogenetic analyses using 18S28S rDNA and mitochondrial cox1 (cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1) sequences clustered them into two groups. The first group (named the stercoralis/procyonis group) was comprised of six OTUs and occurred in cats, raccoon dogs, raccoons (S. procyonis), Siberian weasels, and Japanese badgers and included S. stercoralis from humans and dogs. The second group (named the planiceps group) was made up of Strongyloides spp. from raccoon dogs (two OTUs) and one OTU from Siberian weasels. Subsequent analysis using almost the full-length nucleotide sequences of protein-coding genes in their mitochondrial genomes placed Strongyloides spp. of cats in a sister taxon position to S. stercoralis, whereas S. procyonis from raccoons was more distantly related to them. The presence of Strongyloides spp. from various carnivore hosts, which are close relatives of S. stercoralis, suggests this group of Strongyloides (the stercoralis/procyonis group) essentially evolved as parasites of carnivores, although more data on Strongyloides spp. from primate hosts are needed.

16S rRNA Gene Amplicon Sequence Data from Feces of Five Species of Wild Animals in Japan.

We report 16S rRNA amplicon sequence data from feces from 58 wild boars, 60 feral raccoons, 9 wild Japanese badgers, 21 wild masked palm civets, and 8 wild raccoon dogs in Japan. The predominant bacterial taxa in the fecal microbiota were similar in part but varied among the animal species.

ISOLATION AND ANTIMICROBIAL SUSCEPTIBILITIES OF NONTUBERCULOUS MYCOBACTERIA FROM WILDLIFE IN JAPAN.

Nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) are opportunistic pathogens of humans and animals and are transmitted among the environment, wildlife, livestock, and humans. The aim of this study was to investigate the rate of isolation and antimicrobial susceptibility of NTM in wildlife. In total, 178 samples of feces (n=131) and tissues (n=47) were collected from 11 wildlife species in Gifu Prefecture and Mie Prefecture, Japan, between June 2016 and October 2018. We isolated NTM from 15.3% (20/ 131) of fecal samples using Ogawa medium, and isolates were identified by sequencing the rpoB and hsp65 genes. The rpoB sequences were compared with those from other strains of human and environmental origin. The NTM isolates were obtained from sika deer (Cervus nippon), wild boar (Sus scrofa), Japanese monkey (Macaca fuscata), raccoon dog (Nyctereutes procyonoides), masked palm civet (Paguma larvata), and Japanese weasel (Mustela itatsi) and were classified as rapidly growing mycobacteria (RGM) and slowly growing mycobacteria (SGM). The 12 RGM identified were Mycolicibacterium peregrinum (n=5), Mycolicibacterium fortuitum (n=3), Mycolicibacterium septicum (n=3), and Mycolicibacterium thermoresistibile (n=1), and the eight SGM were Mycobacterium paraense (n=4), Mycolicibacter arupensis (n=2), Mycolicibacter virginiensis (n=1), and Mycobacterium nebraskense (n=1). The NTM from wildlife showed ≥99% similarity with strains from different sources including humans. The RGM were susceptible to the antimicrobial agents tested except for M. fortuitum, which was resistant to azithromycin and clarithromycin. The SGM showed multiple drug resistance qualities but were susceptible to amikacin, clarithromycin, and rifabutin. These results indicate that wildlife may be reservoir hosts of NTM in Japan. The presence of antimicrobial-resistant NTM in wildlife suggests that the trends of NTM antimicrobial susceptibility in wildlife should be monitored.

Co-occurrence of invasive and native carnivorans affects occupancy patterns across environmental gradients

Understanding species interactions and their effects on distributions is crucial for assessing the impacts of global change, particularly for invasive species. Co-occurrence models can help investigate these effects when interactions are likely given shared traits. For such an assemblage of invasive and native carnivorans, we examined how patterns of co-occurrence change across space and environmental gradients using a static multispecies occupancy model that accounts for imperfect detectability and models co-occurrence as a function of environmental variables, and also extended it to be temporally dynamic. We focused on invasive raccoons, which pose threats to humans and wildlife globally. In Japan, raccoons prey on many native taxa, but little is known about interactions with sympatric carnivorans. We searched for signals of competitive exclusion of native raccoon dogs (tanuki) and invasive masked palm civets by applying the model to detection data from a broad-scale trapping effort over 6 years. Forest cover was the strongest predictor of occupancy for individual species and raccoon co-occurrences, and raccoon occupancy probability increased with forest cover conditionally depending on the co-occurring carnivoran: only tanuki absence or civet presence had positive responses. However, tanuki occupancy probability increased with forest cover despite any co-occurrence. Thus, we found no evidence of competitive exclusion by raccoons, contrary to our expectations. As parts of the world with invasive raccoons can also have invasive tanuki, our findings may have broad management implications. The model we present should be useful for inferring signals of biotic interactions between species with low detectability over multi-year time frames.

Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2): An Update.

Coronaviruses (CoVs) belong to the family of Coronaviridae, the order Nidovirales, and the genus Coronavirus. They are the largest group of viruses causing respiratory and gastrointestinal infections. Morphologically, CoVs are enveloped viruses containing a non-segmented positive-sense, single-stranded ribonucleic acid (RNA) viruses. CoVs are categorized into four important genera that include Alphacoronavirus, Betacoronavirus, Gammacoronavirus, and Deltacoronavirus. A novel member of human CoV that has recently emerged in Wuhan, China, is now formally named as SARS-CoV-2 (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2). This is a unique strain of RNA viruses that have not been previously observed in humans. The virus has wide host adaptability and is capable of causing severe diseases in humans, masked palm civets, mice, dogs, cats, camels, pigs, chickens, and bats. The SARS-CoV-2 typically causes respiratory and gastrointestinal sickness in both humans and animals. It can be transmitted through aerosols and direct/indirect contact, as well as during medical cases and laboratory sample handling. Specific structural proteins, which might be found on the surface of the virus, play an important role in the pathogenesis and development of the complications. The disease is characterized by distinct medical signs and symptoms that include high fever, chills, cough, and shortness of breath or difficulty in breathing. The infected people may also present with other symptoms such as diarrhea, myalgia, fatigue, expectoration, and hemoptysis. It is important from the public health and economic point of view as it affects the growth of the country, which is majorly attributed to the restriction in the movement of the people and the cost associated with the control and prevention of the disease. Since there is no specific therapeutic intervention nor a vaccine available against the virus, supportive management and treatment with non-specific therapeutic agents (repurposed drugs) may provide relief to the patients. Some preventive strategies of the disease include blocking the routes of transmission of the infections, disinfection of instruments used during medical case handling, using personal protective equipment, proper and early diagnosis of the disease, avoiding contact with the sick patients, and quarantine of the infected/exposed people.