Recently, a study has provided new evidence that reinforces the theory that COVID-19 originated in an animal market in Wuhan, China.
This study identified the presence of animals such as civets and raccoon dogs, which are known to be able to contract and transmit the virus.
Research suggests the virus was transmitted from the animals to humans at the market, ruling out other theories such as a laboratory escape.
This conclusion is important to better understand how to prevent future pandemics.
You may be interested in: There are 11,692 positive Covid cases so far in 2024
The lab theory suggests that the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which causes COVID-19, may have accidentally escaped from a laboratory in Wuhan, China, specifically the Wuhan Institute of Virology (WIV), which has been studying coronaviruses in bats for more than a decade.
Investigating the origin of a virus like SARS-CoV-2 is a complex process involving several scientific disciplines. Here are some of the main methods and approaches:
1. Epidemiology
Scientists are studying the earliest known cases of the disease to identify patterns and possible sources of infection. This includes interviewing patients and tracing their contacts to determine how and where they may have been infected.
2. Virology
The genetic sequences of the virus are being analyzed to understand its evolution and relationship with other viruses. By comparing the SARS-CoV-2 genome with other coronaviruses, researchers can identify similarities and differences that suggest its origin.
3. Ecology and Zoology
Researchers are studying animals that could have been intermediate hosts for the virus. In the case of SARS-CoV-2, bats and other animals have been investigated as possible sources. Sampling is carried out in animal markets and in the wild to detect the presence of the virus in these animals.
You may be interested in:
Copy URL
