Bio-detection dogs for COVID-19: an alternative diagnostic screening strategy

Sharun, Khan; Jose, Bosco; Tiwari, Ruchi; Natesan, Senthilkumar; Dhama, Kuldeep

Trained bio-detections dogs are already being used for detecting explosives, illicit substances, and for forensic purposes. They have also been used for helping to identify cancer, as well as bacterial and viral infections. We are currently relying on rapid antigen test that has less sensitivity and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) for diagnosing COVID-19 cases. The volatile organic compounds (VOC) produced by an individual reflects their unique metabolic state. The unique VOCs present in the secretions of individuals infected with SARS-CoV-2 may represent a unique feature detectable by trained dogs. Bio-detection dogs can be trained to detect the specific odor in the tracheobronchial secretions, saliva, or sweat of COVID-19 patients. Bio-detections dogs cannot be considered as a replacement to highly sensitive molecular diagnostic tests, such as RT-PCR. Instead, they can be used as a preliminary screening method to help in the early identification and segregation of potential asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infected passengers from susceptible individuals at key entry points, such as airports and sea ports. Furthermore, bio-detection dogs have great potential for screening SARS-CoV-2 infected people in public places, including shopping malls, train stations, bus stations, particularly in countries with limited access to advanced molecular diagnostic tests.