# Urban Coatis (Nasua nasua) Exposure to Alphainfluenzavirus influenzae

## TL;DR

Urban coatis in Brazil show signs of exposure to the influenza virus, indicating they may be susceptible to infection.

## Contribution

This study is the first to report evidence of Alphainfluenzavirus influenzae exposure in urban coatis.

## Key findings

- Neutralizing antibodies against Alphainfluenzavirus influenzae were detected in coatis.
- Viral RNA was identified in coati samples, suggesting recent exposure.
- Sialic acid receptors compatible with the virus were found in coati tissues.

## Abstract

We detected neutralizing antibodies, viral RNA, and sialic acid receptors for Alphainfluenzavirus influenzae in urban coatis (Nasua nasua) in Brazil, suggesting exposure and susceptibility. We used hemagglutination inhibition, reverse transcription quantitative PCR, and histochemistry for detection. Increased epidemiologic wildlife surveillance would improve influenza A emergency event response.