From SARS to MERS, Thrusting Coronavirus into the Spotlight
Thomas M. Donnelley, DVM, MS, DACLAM, DABVP (Exotic Companion Mammal Practice), DECZM
One of the critical determinants of viral host range is the interaction between the coronavirus spike protein and the host cell receptor. 

Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) has been identified as a receptor for the attachment to and uptake of SARS-CoV in host cells.1 The distribution of ACE2 in human tissues corresponds mainly to the cell types in which SARS-CoV replication has been observed. Besides type II pneumocytes and bronchial epithelial cells, ACE2 expression has been found in type I pneumocytes, endothelial cells, and smooth muscle cells of blood vessels, but not alveolar macrophages. 

Read the Full Text HERE
Coronavirus in Animals: Implications for Veterinary Staff
This content was originally sent by the Lafeber Company and is being distributed to AEMV members as a good source of information.
As exotic animal veterinary professionals, we must be proactive and share accurate information.*

Did you know that some shelters have been inundated with surrendered pet ferrets since the starts of the COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic?

What do you know about coronaviruses in ferrets?

What precautions should pet owners with COVID-19 take with companion animals?

What safeguards should veterinary health professionals employ during the COVID-19 pandemic?

Click on the button below to read the data compiled by:

Thomas Donnelly, DVM, DACLAM, DABVP (Exotic Companion Mammal Practice), DECZM (Small Mammal)

with helpful critique and input provided by:

Giacomo Rossi, DVM, PhD, MS, DECZM (WHP), EBVS
Susan Orosz, DVM, PhD, DABVP (Avian Practice), DECZM
Cathy Johnson-Delaney, DVM


Then deep dive into coronaviruses with an addendum shared by Giacomo Rossi, DVM, PhD, MS, DECZM (WHP), EBVS



* COVID-19 is an emerging, rapidly evolving public health issue