Microbiological and decomposition analysis of mass mink burial sites during the COVID-19 pandemic

Kristian Key Milan Thamsborg, Mette Sif Hansen, Charlotte Scheutz, Kasper Klintø, Peter Kjeldsen, Lise Kirstine Kvisgaard, Henrik Elvang Jensen, Freja Broe Hjerpe, Louise Lohse, Thomas Bruun Rasmussen, Lasse Dam Rasmussen, Amalie Ehlers Bedsted, Graham J. Belsham, Jørgen J. Leisner, Anders Dalsgaard*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalJournal articleResearchpeer-review

Abstract

In 2020, Denmark buried approximately four million culled, farmed mink in mass graves treated with slaked lime due to widespread SARS-CoV-2 infections. After six months, environmental concerns prompted the exhumation of these cadavers. Our analysis encompassed visual inspections, soil pH measurements, and gas emission assessments of the grave environment. Additionally, we evaluated carcasses for decay status, cadaverine content, and the presence of various pathogens, including SARS-CoV-2 and mink coronavirus. Our findings revealed minimal microbial activity and limited carcass decomposition. Although viral RNA from SARS-CoV-2 and mink coronavirus, along with DNA from Aleutian mink disease virus, were detected, the absence of infectious SARS-CoV-2 in cell culture assays suggests slow natural degradation processes. This study provides critical insights for future considerations in managing mass burial scenarios during outbreaks of livestock-associated zoonotic pathogens.

Original languageEnglish
Article number19440
JournalScientific Reports
Volume14
ISSN2045-2322
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2024

Bibliographical note

Funding Information:
We would like to thank staff from the Danish Veterinary and Food Administration and technical staff present on-site for helping at the disposal site. Special thanks are extended to the excavator operators for their contribution to the sampling of mink and soil. Additionally, we extend our appreciation to Peter Engelund Holm from the University of Copenhagen for his guidance on pH measurements, as well as to Cecilie Brandt Becker, Mette Marie Jensen, and Tenna Sturm Lind Andersen for their support with on-site sampling, sample transportation, and laboratory work. We are also thankful to Gitte Petersen and Vi Phuong Thi Nguyen for their assistance with microbiological and microbial community analyses.

Publisher Copyright:
© The Author(s) 2024.

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