New Research Unveils Potential Threats from Fur-Farmed Animals
In a groundbreaking study published in the prestigious journal Nature, researchers have revealed that China’s fur farms are a breeding ground for a multitude of viruses, some of which pose a significant risk of crossing over to humans. The investigation uncovered a staggering 125 viruses, including 36 previously unidentified ones.
Viruses found in various animals
The study examined animals commonly found on fur farms, such as minks, rabbits, foxes, and raccoon dogs. “For viruses, these are good conditions, as having multiple opportunities to infect many individuals in various host species can help a virus to evolve and jump to a new species. Following adaptation, one of those new species the virus jumps into might be humans,” explained John Pettersson, a co-author of the study and a researcher at Uppsala University, Sweden, in an interview with Newsweek.
Comprehensive genetic analysis
Researchers collected lung and intestine samples from 461 animals that died across China between 2021 and 2024, with 412 of these animals hailing from fur farms. A detailed genetic analysis of these samples led to the discovery of 125 viruses, 36 of which were novel, and 39 were identified as high-risk for species jump, including transmission to humans. Thirteen of these high-risk viruses are entirely new.
Varied virus types
Among the disturbing findings were several types of bird flu viruses present in guinea pigs, minks, and muskrats. The researchers also identified seven types of coronaviruses, although none were closely related to SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19.
Viruses capable of species jump
The study also found paramyxoviruses, a family of viruses known to cause measles and mumps in humans, which are notorious for their ability to jump between species. Pettersson noted that the mechanisms enabling viruses to cross species barriers remain complex and multifaceted, involving factors such as evolutionary rate and host-virus evolution. “We need more studies to have a better understanding of virus-host jumps,” he emphasized.
Existing zoonotic viruses and high-risk carriers
Alarmingly, the research also discovered 11 zoonotic viruses that have already been observed in humans, including hepatitis E and Japanese encephalitis. Raccoon dogs, native to East Asia and resembling small foxes, were found to carry the highest number of potentially high-risk viruses, totaling 10.
Previous warnings and future implications
This study corroborates earlier warnings about the risks associated with fur farming, particularly its role in facilitating viral cross-species transmission. The findings underscore the urgent need for more comprehensive research and stringent regulations to mitigate potential pandemic threats emanating from fur farms.
As the world grapples with the ongoing consequences of zoonotic diseases, this new research serves as a stark reminder of the hidden dangers lurking in animal farming practices.