Minks can contract the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 strain from humans. Moreover, there have been reports of the infection transferring the other way too. Denmark has been culling minks at infected farms usually by gassing with carbon monoxide. However, they have not been able to contain the spread. And moreover a mutation of the virus has been detected. Today we find Denmark locked down as mink cases surge, and a mass mink cull in progress.
Why Kill Minks with Denmark Locked Down as Cases Surge?
World Health Organization (WHO) says ‘mink appear to be good reservoirs of coronavirus’ according to BBC News. Cases have been rising with 207 farms affected in the Jutland Peninsula reaching into the North Sea. Five cases of a new strain of the coronavirus have surfaced with at least 12 people feeling the effects of the mutate strain.
Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has disclosed ‘the mutated virus had been found to weaken the body’s ability to form antibodies’. She adds this potentially makes the current vaccines under development for Covid-19 ineffective.
Denmark Enters a Tough Lock Down in Affected Jutland Areas
The Nordic nation has a population of 5.8 million, which puts it on par with Wisconsin, Colorado, Minnesota, and South Carolina populations. It has logged over 52,000 human cases of COVID-19, and 733 deaths. Now Denmark, locked down as mink cases surge has taken firm action against mutated viruses appearing in minks.
Denmark has decided to euthanize its entire population of over 17 million minks in an attempt to snuff out the rogue COVID strain. Meanwhile the people in affected municipalities face closure of bars, restaurants, public transport and all public indoor sports.
WHO has commended Denmark’s ‘determination and courage for going ahead with the culls, despite the impact on local economies’. Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen knows the risks. ‘Right now the eyes of the world are resting on us,’ she says. ‘I hope and believe that together we can solve the problems we face.’
Related
Proof of Spread Between Minks and Humans
The Next Animal-to-Human Viral Transfer
Preview: Example Mink Farm Enclosure
