Compositions, assays, methods, diagnostic methods, kits, and diagnostic kits are disclosed for the specific and differential detection of SARS-CoV-2 and/or other viruses from samples, including veterinary samples, clinical samples, food samples, forensic sample, environmental samples (e.g., obtained from soil, garbage, sewage, air, water, food processing and manufacturing surfaces, or likewise), or biological sample obtained from a human or non-human animal.