Genomic surveillance of SARS-CoV-2 viruses in bushmeat markets and perceptions of the health risks associated with COVID-19 in Côte d'Ivoire

The consumption and trade of wildlife are held primarily responsible of the current COVID-19 pandemic. To date, SARS-CoV-2-like viruses have been isolated from only two Asian mammals (bat and pangolin). Given the presence of representatives of these species in Côte d'Ivoire and the magnitude of bushmeat trade in this country, it is very likely that natural outbreaks of the SARS-CoV-2 or SARS-Cov virus -2-like exists in Côte d'Ivoire. The SARS-CoV viruses have a great capacity to cross inter-species barriers and the spectrum of their diversity remains to be described. Because the wildlife trade is directly linked to the spread of emerging diseases, wildlife surveillance is a critical sentinel in anticipating future epidemics, especially those related to SARS-CoV-2. Our general objective is to conduct health surveillance and a risk assessment regarding the potential for an upcoming SARS-CoV-2 epidemic in Côte d'Ivoire. Specifically, the project aims to: (i) anticipate future SARSCoV-2-like reservoirs, (ii) understand the evolution of SARS-CoV-2, iii) validate rapid RT-PCR and serological tests that are less inexpensive and (iv) implement effective measures protecting populations against new zoonoses linked to SARS-CoV-2. Hundreds of samples (tissues, blood, swabs) will be collected from bushmeat markets and in the wild for their molecular typing. The actors of the bushmeat sector will also be sensitized on the health risks. Expected Outcomes The following results are expected: - the reservoirs of SARS-CoV-2 like viruses in mammals of Côte d'Ivoire are known; - the evolutionary dynamics and transmissions between intermediate hosts of SARS-CoV-2 viruses are better understood; - a "kit" of RT-PCR and serological tests for the detection of the SARS-CoV like viruses in a wide spectrum of potential hosts (mammals) is validated and an expertise in the rapid diagnosis of SARS-CoV surveillance using RT-PCR is made available to Côte d'Ivoire and other African countries; - sanitary devices are installed in the targeted bushmeat markets; - the Ivorian populations are informed and better understand the risks associated with the consumption of bushmeat; - - educational documents (leaflets, posters, etc.) on the health risks associated with the consumption of bushmeat will be disseminated to stakeholders in the bushmeat markets and national media in African countries.