This study investigates the pathogenesis and transmission of SARS-CoV-2 in golden hamsters (Mesocricetus auratus). The researchers found that SARS-CoV-2 infected nasal mucosa, bronchial epithelial cells, and lung areas, leading to rapid viral clearance and pneumocyte hyperplasia by day 7 post-inoculation. Viral antigens were detected in the duodenum epithelial cells, and viral RNA was found in feces. Transmission was efficient through direct contact and aerosols but less so via fomites. The communicable period was short, lasting less than six days, and correlated with the detection of infectious virus rather than viral RNA. Inoculated and naturally infected hamsters showed weight loss, developed neutralizing antibodies, and returned to their original weight within 14 days. The findings suggest that the golden hamster is a suitable model for studying SARS-CoV-2 infection, with features resembling mild human infections. The study also highlights the importance of understanding host defense mechanisms and transmission dynamics to develop effective countermeasures against SARS-CoV-2.This study investigates the pathogenesis and transmission of SARS-CoV-2 in golden hamsters (Mesocricetus auratus). The researchers found that SARS-CoV-2 infected nasal mucosa, bronchial epithelial cells, and lung areas, leading to rapid viral clearance and pneumocyte hyperplasia by day 7 post-inoculation. Viral antigens were detected in the duodenum epithelial cells, and viral RNA was found in feces. Transmission was efficient through direct contact and aerosols but less so via fomites. The communicable period was short, lasting less than six days, and correlated with the detection of infectious virus rather than viral RNA. Inoculated and naturally infected hamsters showed weight loss, developed neutralizing antibodies, and returned to their original weight within 14 days. The findings suggest that the golden hamster is a suitable model for studying SARS-CoV-2 infection, with features resembling mild human infections. The study also highlights the importance of understanding host defense mechanisms and transmission dynamics to develop effective countermeasures against SARS-CoV-2.