Short Wave Why Pandemic Researchers Are Talking About Raccoon Dogs
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Mar 23, 2023 Katherine Wu, a Staff Writer at The Atlantic who has reported on the COVID-19 pandemic since 2020, delves into the intriguing role of raccoon dogs in the origins of the virus. She discusses recent genetic evidence linking these animals to the Huanan Seafood Market, shedding new light on the natural origins of COVID-19. Wu highlights challenges in pandemic research, including data transparency and political influences. The conversation underscores the importance of understanding wildlife in preventing future outbreaks and the need for ongoing dialogue in scientific communities.
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COVID-19 Origin Evidence
- Raw genetic data from the Huanan market, the early epicenter of COVID-19, was analyzed.
- This analysis offers the strongest evidence yet for the pandemic's natural origins, potentially implicating raccoon dogs.
Unexpected Data Release
- Raw data from the Huanan market was unexpectedly posted to an open database in early 2023.
- This data was previously analyzed by Chinese researchers, but their preprint concluded no animal host could be identified.
Raccoon Dog Link
- Raccoon dog DNA was found near the virus at a stall where they were likely sold.
- Although this suggests a link, it doesn't confirm raccoon dogs as the intermediate host.