Animal origin most likely for COVID-19, new review finds

Nature reports that, after years of work, SAGO’s independent assessment finds most peer‑reviewed evidence supports a zoonotic origin for SARS‑CoV‑2, with early transmission linked to the Huanan market, while there is no conclusive evidence for a lab‑leak. Four hypotheses were evaluated (animal spillover, import via goods, accidental lab-related event, deliberate manipulation); the lab‑leak option remains unsupported by decisive data, but substantial information is still needed. The report calls for enhanced data sharing, ongoing global surveillance, and rigorous science to resolve the virus’s origins beyond speculation.