Crits-Christoph Study Links COVID-19 Origins to Wuhan Market Animals, Raccoon Dogs, 800 Samples

Sep 19, 2024, 07:30 PM

A new study published in the journal Cell by Crits-Christoph et al. has provided further evidence supporting the theory that the COVID-19 pandemic likely originated from infected animals at the Huanan Seafood Market in Wuhan, China, in late 2019. The study, conducted by a team of scientists, analyzed over 800 surface samples collected from wildlife stalls at the market. The findings suggest that the virus most likely spilled over from animals, with raccoon dogs being a possible source. This new genetic analysis refutes previous claims and aligns with the hypothesis that the pandemic began with a natural spillover rather than a laboratory leak. The study's conclusions are based on metagenomic and phylogenetic data, which trace the virus's lineage back to the market. The scientists assert it is beyond reasonable doubt that the pandemic started with infected animals sold at the market.