The Iowa Department of Public Health posted an announcement on its Web site last week, stating that a 12-year- old house cat had tested positive for the H1N1 flu virus. Two of three family members had exhibited “flu-like” symptoms the week before the cat became symptomatic.
Both the cat and the owners have fully recovered from the illness, and authorities concluded that the cat was infected by its owners.
There have been only a few other reports of animal infection by H1N1. Four ferrets in Oregon were tested positive for H1N1 while suffering flu-like symptoms. They were believed to have been infected by their human companions, as well. There have been two or three swine-herd H1N1 infections, again the result of spread from human handlers.
It appears we are a greater threat to animals than they to us as far as H1N1 is concerned.
Note that I do not refer to H1N1 as “swine flu” The actual H1N1 virus is composed mainly of the human Eurasian flu strain, and smaller parts of avian and swine flu components. “Swine flu” was a misnomer, coined mostly by the media, resulting in widespread fear of pork consumption. We now refer to the virus more accurately as “H1N1” and there is no spread of the virus through meat consumption of any kind.
Pet owners may be concerned about giving H1N1 to their pets. The virus is transmitted to pets in the same manner it transmits to other humans — through respiratory secretions. Practice the same prevention measures around pets as you would people — cover your coughs and sneezes, wash hands regularly and keep away from others, if possible, when you are ill.
In animals, the H1N1 symptoms are similar to those of humans — fever, respiratory congestion, coughing, sneezing, decreased appetite and occasional gastrointestinal signs. If you suspect a problem with one of your pets, call your veterinarian and request an exam. Advise your veterinarian there may have been exposure to H1N1, and let your pet’s doctor decide on an action plan.
H1N1 is present in many communities. I urge you not to panic, but instead to be informed. Here are some credible sources for information: www.AVMA.org (The American Veterinary Medical Association), www.CDC.gov (Centers for Disease Control) and www.ok.gov/health/ (Oklahoma Dept of Health).
Our local county health department has brochures and pamphlets, and trained personnel who can be reached by phone.
Last, but not least, your veterinarian has extensively trained in public health. He or she is a fountain of information on many of the issues that affect the health and well being of you and your pets.
Until next time — thanks for caring!
