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Following the detection of SARS-CoV-2 in minks and humans in several
countries, a joint FAO–OIE–WHO Global Early Warning System (GLEWS+) qualitative risk assessment on SARS-CoV-2 in animals farmed for fur was conducted.
Circulation of this virus in mink farms impacts livelihoods and public health, contributing to associated socio-economic disruption. In addition, the spread of SARS-CoV-2 in fur farms impacts animal health and
welfare and poses a risk of spillover to native wildlife, which may affect species biodiversity or create new wildlife reservoirs for the virus.
The overall risk of introduction and spread of SARS-CoV-2 within fur farms, the spillover to humans in these farms and the transmission of SARS-CoV-2 from fur farmed animals to susceptible
wildlife populations was assessed at the regional level.
This assessment provides a series of recommendations for prevention and control measures on fur farms to increase biosecurity, reduce the likelihood of SARS-CoV-2 introduction
and spread within fur farms, and mitigate the public health risk.
Keith Sumption
Director-OIC
Animal Production and Health Division, NSA
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