To investigate SARS-CoV-2 transmission from humans to animals in Seoul, South Korea, we submitted samples from companion animals owned by persons with confirmed COVID-19. Real-time PCR indicated higher SARS-CoV-2 viral infection rates for dogs and cats than previously reported from the United States and Europe. Host-specific adaptations could introduce mutant SARS-CoV-2 to humans.
Keywords: 2019 novel coronavirus disease; COVID-19; SARS-CoV-2; South Korea; cat; coronavirus disease; dog; respiratory infections; reverse zoonosis; severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2; viruses; zoonoses.