BACKGROUND AND AIM

The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), has raised concern regarding anthropozoonotic transmission to domestic animals, posing potential public and veterinary health risks. Latin America remains underrepresented in seroepidemiological assessments of such zoonotic spillover. This study aimed to detect anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in domestic dogs and cats in Panama using a One Health surveillance framework.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A cross-sectional serological survey was conducted between October 2022 and December 2023 across the metropolitan area of Panama City. Serum samples from 341 animals (198 dogs and 143 cats) were analyzed using a commercial double-antigen enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay to detect antibodies targeting the SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid protein. A historical panel of 100 pre-pandemic canine and feline samples was also tested. Demographic, clinical, and exposure data were collected through owner questionnaires, and statistical associations with seropositivity were assessed using univariate tests and binary logistic regression.

RESULTS

Seropositivity was detected in 12/341 animals (3.5%; 95% confidence interval: 1.96-6.11%), comprising 9 dogs (4.5%) and 3 cats (2.1%). In addition, 2/100 pre-pandemic canine samples (2.0%) tested positive. Most seropositive animals (75%) were reported to have lived in households with confirmed COVID-19 cases, although this variable was not statistically associated with seropositivity. Regression analysis identified ideal body condition as a significant predictor (p = 0.016), while sampling location and demographic variables were not significant.

CONCLUSION

This study presents the first serological evidence of SARS-CoV-2 exposure in domestic pets in Panama. While low in prevalence, the findings underscore the relevance of community-based animal surveillance and reveal possible serological cross-reactivity with endemic canine coronaviruses. The data support the continued integration of domestic animal monitoring into One Health strategies to preempt zoonotic risks and improve pandemic preparedness.