Omicron mutations have been found in several white-tailed deer living on Staten Island in New York, according to researchers.
The researchers found that the mutant strain was of particular concern as the virus could be transmitted to new animals, which could infect humans. Covid-19 is also a zoonotic disease, meaning that it was originally transmitted from animals to humans.
“One can imagine that this could turn into an endless cycle, where the virus will be constantly transmitted from one deer to another and new variants will be created,” said Sures Kuchipudi, a microbiologist and veterinarian who led of the research team.
Deer could be a particularly problematic carrier of the virus, as humans usually tend to approach them. These are animals that roam in many areas and generally appear to be asymptomatic.
Wild deer are also prey and eaten as food in the United States. Some states have already warned hunters to take extra precautions when transporting deer carcasses, even advising them to wear gloves or even protective masks.
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