Serological Survey of SARS-CoV-2 in Wild Canids in Serbia: First Report in Red Foxes and Golden Jackals
Simple Summary The virus responsible for COVID-19 can affect multiple animal species, including wildlife. In this study, we tested, by commercial ELISA, blood samples from red foxes and golden jackals in Serbia for IgG anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies. Antibodies were detected in both species, with a seroprevalence of 13.3% in red foxes and 7.3% in golden jackals (overall seroprevalence: 10.3%). All the samples were tested in parallel by an in-house adapted ELISA. These results provide the first evidence of SARS-CoV-2 exposure in wild canids in Serbia. Monitoring pathogens in wildlife improves our understanding of disease ecology and supports early recognition of potential zoonotic risks.