Russia Registers First Animal Vaccine Against COVID-19

The world’s first animal vaccine against COVID-19, developed by scientists of the Federal Service for Veterinary and Phytosanitary Surveillance (Rosselkhoznadzor), has been registered in Russia, the watchdog’s deputy head Konstantin Savenkov has told reporters and announced that the mass production may be launched as early as in April.

– Carnivak-Cov, a sorbate inactivated vaccine against the coronavirus infection (COVID-19) for carnivorous animals, developed by Rosselkhoznadzor’s Federal Center for Animal Health, has been registered in Russia. So far, it is the world’s first and only product for preventing COVID-19 in animals – Savenkov said.

According to Savenkov, clinical trials of Carnivak began last October, and involved dogs, cats, foxes and Arctic foxes, minks and other animals, TASS reports.

– The outcome of the research gives us grounds to conclude that the vaccine is safe and has strong immunogenic effect, because all vaccinated animals developed antibodies to novel coronavirus in 100% – Savenkov emphasized.

According to Savenkov, Russian scientists continue their research in a bid to find out how long the vaccine’s effect lasts. At present, it is estimated to last no less than six months, he said.

Other countries, including from Greece, Poland, Austria, USA, Canada and Singapore, have already shown interest in the anti-coronavirus vaccine for animals, developed by Russian scientists, Konstantin Savenkov has told reporters.

According to the World Organization for Animal Health, certain animal species are susceptible to COVID-19. Cases of the disease have been registered in various animals all over the world.

According to Savenkov, two cases of the novel coronavirus infection in cats have been registered in Russia so far: in Moscow and Tyumen (West Siberia), TASS adds.

– According to Russian scientists, the use of the vaccine can prevent further mutations of the virus, which often occur during the inter-specific transmission of the pathogen – the Russian official said.

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