World: A highly contagious type of avian influenza, commonly known as bird flu, has raised worrying signs about zoonotic transmission in recent weeks. The outbreak, which has reportedly killed a few people and infected four people so far, is spreading rapidly in the U.S. The virus, previously confined to wild birds and domestic chickens, has been found in cats in 31 states, while a few cases have been identified in dogs. This raises concerns about animal health and potential human exposure, especially among pet owners. Here’s everything you need to know. Bird flu spreads to 31 US states The infection has so far spread from cows to rats, foxes, mountain lions and even alpacas in 12 states, according to USA Today. Despite initial expert assurances that the virus would not affect dairy products, it has spread rapidly in dairy cows across the country, affecting more than 90 herds in the past few months. The H5N1 virus has also harmed a number of other species, including poultry, dairy and three farm workers who were exposed to the disease. Still, genuine concern continues to grow as sporadic cases of infection have been found in cats and dogs.
Bird flu detected in cats and dogs in the US The outlet claims that about 21 domestic cats in 9 US states have contracted the disease since March 1. According to the report, some of the sick and dead cats showed signs of the disease, which went unnoticed when the infection was spreading on dairy farms. Researchers have long known that cats are prone to avian influenza. According to the NY Times
“Domestic cats are actually highly susceptible to avian influenza, particularly H5N1,” said Kristen Coleman, a researcher at the University of Maryland. Wild, barn and pet cats are among those that have tested positive for bird flu. There are also some reports of dogs, although the number is low, but the concern remains. H5N1, a new variant of bird flu that emerged back in 2020, has rapidly spread globally. Scientists believe cases in cats and dogs are rare, but “it does lead to very severe illness and sometimes death,” which is why it should be taken seriously.Can bird flu spread from pet cats to humans There is a slight risk of humans getting sick if their pets are infected, although it is very unlikely according to the CDC. Professionals believe the H5N1 virus can spread through cats’ saliva, feces or other body fluids. Many cats with the virus show symptoms such as fever, loss of appetite and lung problems such as a runny nose, difficulty breathing and pneumonia. They can also often have neurological symptoms such as stiffness, tremors and seizures. “We don’t fully understand whether or not they are capable of transmitting the infection,” said Dr. Johnson, who discussed whether cats can spread the disease to humans. “There is currently no evidence that cats are contributing to the spread of the virus on dairy farms,” she said.
