Russia has scored another first in the battle against coronavirus disease. Russia was the first nation to authorize the coronavirus vaccine named “Sputnik V” in August, 2020. This time Russia has come up with the first-ever COVID-19 vaccine for animals. This vaccine is called “Carnivac-Cov” as per the announcement done by Rosselkhoznadzor, Russia’s agriculture safety watchdog.
Why Do We Need COVID-19 Vaccine For Animals?
COVID-19 disease is caused by a pathogenic agent SARS-CoV-2 (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome-Coronavirus-2). The exact source of the COVID-19 disease is still unknown but it has been assumed that it might have come from an animal, possibly a bat.
Transmission of SARS-CoV-2 from humans to other animals can happen when they are in close contact. In this way, pets are most affected and some of the cases have been identified to prove this. Farmed minks affected with SARS-CoV-2 have been reported worldwide. Other animals that have shown the symptoms include pet cats and dogs, tigers and gorillas in zoos or sanctuaries, and other different mammals. Many nations including Russia have registered cases of COVID-19 disease in animals.
By preventing the mutation in domestic animals the Carnivac-Cov vaccine could be a major step to limit transmission between animals and humans.
According to Russia’s Military officials, as the World War II commemoration is approaching in May, a mandatory vaccination has been announced for army dogs so that they can be deployed at airports.
Carnivac-Cov Clinical Trials
Clinical trials for the Carnivac-Cov vaccine started in October 2020. As per Rosselkhoznadzor, the animal vaccine was tested on dogs, cats, Arctic foxes, mink, foxes, and other animals in Russia. Upon observing the results it was concluded that the animals had developed antibodies to fight COVID-19 disease. It has been six months since the trials begin and continued successful trials proved the safety and immunogenic capacity of the Carnivac-Cov vaccine in animals.
As of now, Russia has developed a total of 3 vaccines for humans also. Apart from Sputnik V, Russia has given its nod to use EpiVacCorona and CoviVac in case of emergency.
Suggested Reading –
- Coronavirus – Transmission, Cure, FAQs, Live Status
- Understanding Mutations and the new coronavirus strain
Production of Carnivac-Cov Vaccine
As told by Rosselkhoznadzor, the mass production of the first-ever animal vaccine can take place from April 2021. Moscow is in talks with other contries to sell Carnivac-Cov Vaccine. These countries include Greece, Poland and Austria.
Russia is considered one of the leading countries to produce pelt. It is the skin of an animal, especially with its fur or wool. Pelts are utilized in the fur trade. From the Soviet Union times, Russia has a great history for the raw fur trade. The fur farm industry of Russia accounts for approximately 3% of the worldwide market.
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Conclusion
By developing the world’s first COVID-19 vaccine for animals Russia has taken a very prudent step. Mutation in coronavirus has been observed in the new strain. The pandemic battle is not over yet and hence continued research and successful trials of vaccines should be prominent. Still, researchers are involved in finding out the actual cause of coronavirus ignition and its transmission between humans and animals. The good news of the first animal vaccine from Russia is a great release for us and for our furry friends. Precautionary measures are still needed to be taken even if you or your pets are vaccinated.
Stay healthy. Be safe. 🙂