Official statement or publication from the World Health Organization (WHO)

New Study Links Covid-19 Origin to Wuhan Market Animals, Including Raccoon Dogs

Sep 19, 2024, 06:03 PM

A new study published in the journal 'Cell' on Thursday provides new evidence supporting the theory that the Covid-19 pandemic originated from infected animals at the Huanan Seafood Market in Wuhan, China, in late 2019. The study, which analyzed 800 surface samples collected from wildlife stalls, suggests that the virus most likely spilled over from animals sold at the market, including raccoon dogs. This finding aligns with previous research that identified the market as a significant site for early Covid-19 cases. The study also refutes earlier claims by the same authors, indicating that the pandemic likely started with Lineage A, although early market cases were all Lineage B. Despite the new evidence, some scientists have raised concerns about the study's methodology and conclusions, calling for further investigation.