Most people are aware by now of the H1N1 influenza outbreak and the effect it is having on the general population. However, a lot of questions exist about the risk of H1N1 infection in our pets and the risk of human exposure to H1N1 through our pets.
H1N1 Influenza Virus and Dogs
The H1N1 virus is capable of infecting dogs. Recently, two dogs from China were found to be infected with the influenza virus. Though these were the first two cases of infection documented in dogs, we now know that canine infection is possible. It is thought that these dogs became infected through contact with people sick with the flu.
H1N1 Virus and Cats
Cats are also known to be at risk for infection with the H1N1 influenza virus strain. In fact, the first feline fatality from what was previously known as “swine flu” was recently reported. Again, feline infection is most likely to occur through contact with sick people.
H1N1 Influenza Virus Strain and Ferrets
Ferrets are also at risk of becoming infected with the H1N1 virus and exposure is most likely to occur through contact with sick people, as with dogs and cats.
“Swine Flu” and Other Animals
Other animals documented with H1N1 infections include pigs and turkeys. Recently, a cheetah from California was also reported as infected although the testing is being called presumptive at this time. It is possible that additional animal species will be found with H1N1 infections as the flu endemic continues.
Can People Get the H1N1 Flu From Pets?
Right now, there is no evidence that the virus is being passed from pets to people. Most if not all of the animals infected appear to have been infected through contact with people who were infected with the virus. While it is not impossible that pets could pass the influenza virus to people, it is also not a cause for panic. Exposure to the influenza virus through a pet would be no more dangerous than becoming exposed through contact with another person.
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