Lack of SARS-CoV-2 RNA evidence in the lungs from wild European polecats (Mustela putorius) from Spain

Data on SARS-CoV-2 infection in wildlife species is limited. The high prevalences found in mustelid species such as free-ranging American minks (Neovison vison) and domestic ferrets (Mustela putorius furo) justify the study of this virus in the closely related autochthonous free-ranging European polecat (Mustela putorius). We analysed lung samples from 48 roadkilled polecats collected when the human infection reached its highest levels in Spain (2020-2021). We did not detect infections by SARS- CoV-2; however, surveillance in wild carnivores and particularly in mustelids is still warranted, due to their susceptibility to this virus.

Automated summary

Data on SARS-CoV-2 infection in wildlife species is limited. However, high prevalences found in mustelid species justify studying this virus in closely related autochthonous free-ranging European polecats. Analysis of lung samples from roadkilled polecats did not detect SARS-CoV-2 infection, but surveillance in wild carnivores and mustelids is still necessary due to their susceptibility.