072— Geneseo COVID-19 Study Group Report IV: Zoonotic Transmission and Variants of SARS-CoV-2

A zoonotic disease is a virus, bacteria, or other organism that is transmitted from animals to humans. There are many zoonotic diseases that have arisen from a family of viruses called Coronaviridae, one of these being SARS-CoV-2 which is more commonly known as Covid-19. We know that viruses can mutate to create variants of themselves with changes to their genetic code. As of March 13, 2021, there are three identified variants of the SARS-CoV-2 virus - B.1.1.7 (UK), B.1.351 (South Africa), and P.1 (Brazil). These virulent zoonotic strains have been found globally since 2019 and have managed to become more dangerous with each mutation. The specific strains can vary in their transmission and morbidity. We will be evaluating the virulence of SARS-CoV-2 to the various mammalian bodies by the binding affinity of the virus to the ACE2 receptors. Our goal is to educate the public on the transmission of SARS-CoV-2 between humans and animals, specifically their own pets in order to help people better protect themselves.