We tested the suitability of the domestic pig as a model for Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) infection. Inoculation did not cause disease, but a low level of virus replication, shedding, and seroconversion were observed. Pigs do not recapitulate human MERS-CoV and are unlikely to constitute a reservoir in nature.
Keywords: DPP4; MERS-CoV; Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus; United States; animal models; dipeptidyl peptidase 4; domestic pig; pigs; viruses; zoonoses.