What is the Coronavirus?

By Dr. Cody Dressler, Charleston Animal Society Associate Director of Veterinary Care

Coronaviruses belong to the large family Coronaviridae. Several different strains of coronavirus are known to commonly circulate within human and animal populations.

Few strains of the virus are able to spread from animals to humans (zoonotic disease). COVID-19, or corona virus disease 19, is the newest strain of coronavirus within the family.

This strain was first identified in China in December 2019. COVID-19 has since spread through the human population infecting tens of thousands of people across the globe and drawing a lot of public attention.

Despite the spread of the disease, no domestic animals or pets have become sick. Whether caused by a virus, bacteria, or parasite, any disease that poses a threat to pets should be discussed with a primary care veterinarian so appropriate preventative measures can be implemented in a timely manner.

Stay up to date on the Coronavirus at:

The World Health Organization (WHO): www.who.int

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC): www.cdc.gov