Efficient transmission of SARS-CoV-2 with minimal clinical signs have been demonstrated in Ferrets and related members of the weasel genus, mimicking its spread in the young-adult population.

A study, utilizing the ferret model, demonstrated a high SARS-CoV-2 burden in nasal tissues and secretions that coincides with the efficient direct-contact transmission. On treating the infected animals, therapeutically, with MK-4482/EIDD-2801 in a BD dose, a significant reduction in the upper respiratory tract SARS-CoV-2 load and total stoppage of transmission to untreated contact animals was observed. This study determined the promising antiviral activity of oral MK-4482/EIDD-2801 to violate SARS-CoV-2 community transmission chains.

Source- Preprint. Res Sq. 2020;rs.3.rs-89433. Published 2020 Oct 12. doi:10.21203/rs.3.rs-89433/v1