Veterinary Public Health


Pet Health Calendar
Contact Information
Veterinary Public Health Program
313 N Figueroa St. Rm 1127
Los Angeles, CA 90012
Tel (213) 288-7060
Fax (213) 481-2375
vet@ph.lacounty.gov
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Tracking the SARS-CoV-2 virus in animals in 2023

 

microscopic image of a virus

Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, the SARS-CoV-2 virus has been infecting many animal species, not just humans. For example, the virus has spread to deer in the USA. It is estimated that about 40% of dogs and cats end up becoming infected when their owners are infected.

 

It is possible that new variants may emerge from that could infect humans. Therefore, it is important to continue to test animals for the virus in LA County, including wildlife and pets.

 

Free testing for SARS-CoV-2 in Animals in LA County

In 2023 the LA County Veterinary Public Health Program (VPH) received funding to provide free testing for SARS-CoV-2 in animals in LA County and those arriving at LAX Airport.  Click on the two blue buttons below to learn more. Scroll to the table below to see test results from these programs.

 

Learn about free SARS-CoV-2 testing for animals                Learn about free testing of animals imported through LAX for SARS-CoV-2

 

More data

  • Data from earlier SARS-CoV-2 testing program in animals in LA County.  Surveillance program was in effect from May 2022- March 2023, supported by a grant from CSTE:  http://publichealth.lacounty.gov/vet/animalCOVID19surv.htm

  • Data on SARS-CoV-2 in animals across the USA. Confirmed Cases of SARS-CoV-2 in Animals in the United States* - from USDA-APHIS.

    • *Note that USDA date does not contain all positive results from all animals in the USA - it only includes cases confirmed by USDA laboratories. Some cases in animals tested positive at various laboratories but were not re-tested by USDA. This was especially true earlier in the pandemic when testing demand was high and resources were limited.

     

Information for Pet Owners:

  

Information for Veterinarians/Veterinary Staff:

Toolkit: One Health Approach to Address Companion Animals with SARS-CoV-2 - CDC

 

Information about COVID-19 in humans

 

Last updated: January 22, 2024

   
 
Public Health has made reasonable efforts to provide accurate translation. However, no computerized translation is perfect and is not intended to replace traditional translation methods. If questions arise concerning the accuracy of the information, please refer to the English edition of the website, which is the official version.
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