First Detection of SARS-CoV-2 in White Rhinoceros during a Small-Scale Coronavirus Surveillance in the Bandia Reserve, Senegal

SIMPLE SUMMARY: This study focuses on the molecular surveillance of coronaviruses in wildlife in Senegal. Fecal samples were collected from various species of wild animals, both in the Bandia Reserve and Ngaparou. The results revealed the absence of coronaviruses in hedgehogs, non-human primates, and a giraffe. However, a positive sample obtained from a white rhinoceros yielded SARS-CoV-2 through sequencing of the RdRp gene. This finding represents the first documented case of molecular detection of SARS-CoV-2 in white rhinoceros, expanding our understanding of potential hosts of the virus. This finding expands our understanding of potential hosts of SARS-CoV-2 and highlights the importance of using wildlife monitoring to improve coronavirus surveillance. ABSTRACT: The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has heightened interest in the monitoring and surveillance of coronaviruses in wildlife. Testing for the virus in animals can provide valuable insights into viral reservoirs, transmission, and pathogenesis. In this study, we present the results of the molecular surveillance project focused on coronaviruses in Senegalese wildlife. During the project, we screened fecal samples of the wild animals living in the Bandia Reserve (ten non-human primates, one giraffe, and two white rhinoceros) and the free-living urban population of African four-toed hedgehogs in Ngaparou. The results showed the absence of coronaviruses in hedgehogs, non-human primates, and a giraffe. A single positive sample was obtained from a white rhinoceros. The sequencing results of amplified RdRp gene confirmed that the detected virus was SARS-CoV-2. This study represents the first documented instance of molecular detection of SARS-CoV-2 in white rhinoceros and, therefore, extends our knowledge of possible SARS-CoV-2 hosts.