Covid-19 and Pets: Could the Virus Evolve into a New Deadly Mutation?

Scientists have been studying around the clock the SARS-CoV-2 virus and all its possible mutations. As the virus goes from one host to another, from humans to animals and vice-versa, it mutates, and the resulting strains become even more potent than the original variant. New investigations reveal that an evolved Covid-19 variant could kill one in three people. 

SAGE warns against future variants

According to the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (SAGE), if the virus mutates in its highest and spreads from pets to humans, the evolved strain could be as lethal as MERS, and the death rate could go up to 35%. The advice is to vaccinate pets and animals more affected by the virus and even reduce their population. Unfortunately, several animals are perfect hosts for the SARS-CoV-2 virus. The only way to prevent the mutated virus from jumping back to humans is through culling and vaccinating the species. 

Different future scenarios could help prevent more casualties

To help stop the fast evolution of the coronavirus, experts believe that booster shots and the tight control of outbreaks could be of help. In time, the virus might become less deadly, but new strains need to be kept under control for now. The investigation also revealed that a super strain could become resistant to vaccines and lead to higher death rates. Severe cases would also become the norm and. That means that vaccines need to be continuously improved to keep up with the virus. 

A deadlier strain could mean new lockdowns

Scientists warn that if Governments do not act in time, it would be more challenging to manage future dangerous strains. That would lead to high hospitalization and death rates. If that were the case, then new lockdowns might happen to stop the spreading of the virus.