On Dec. 21, 2021, the United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) National Veterinary Services Laboratories announced confirmation of SARS-CoV-2 (the virus that causes COVID-19) in a Canada lynx at a zoo in Pennsylvania.

This was the first Canada lynx confirmed with the SARS-CoV-2 virus in the United States. Samples were taken from the lynx after it showed signs of infection including coughing and lethargy.

USDA was monitoring cases of the infection in animals, was completing surveillance for the virus in animals under the American Rescue Plan framework, and  would report cases to the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE).

SARS-CoV-2 infections have been reported in several animal species worldwide, mostly in animals that had close contact with a person with COVID-19.  At this time, routine testing of animals is not recommended. State, Tribal, local, and territorial animal health and public health officials will work with USDA and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to make determinations about whether animals should be tested for SARS-CoV-2, using a One Health approach.

We are still learning about SARS-CoV-2 in animals.  Based on the information available, the risk of animals spreading the virus to people is considered to be low. People with COVID-19 can spread the virus to animals during close contact.  It is important for people with suspected or confirmed COVID-19 to avoid contact with pets and other animals to protect them from possible infection.