MercoPress. South Atlantic News Agency

First recorded case of H1N1 flu transmitted to cat by pet’s owner

Just in case don’t sneeze next to your cat

A 13 year old cat came down with the H1N1 virus flu in the state of Iowa, in the US Mid West, the first case so far proved and evidence that humans with the flu virus can spread it to pets.

The case surprised human and animal health authorities, who hadn't seen a human flu virus passed to a cat before, though passionate cat lovers were shaking their heads when it was reported last week.

Following the confirmation the Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH) and the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship (IDALS) reminded Iowans that in addition to protecting their families, friends and neighbours from the spread of the 2009 H1N1 influenza virus, it’s important to remember to protect family pets from the illness, as well.

“People who are sick with H1N1 can spread the virus not only to humans, but to some animals”, said the release.

The 13-year-old indoor cat in Iowa was brought to the Lloyd Veterinary Medical Centre at Iowa State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine, where it tested positive for the H1N1 virus.

The diagnosis is the culmination of collaborative efforts between IDPH, Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine, Centre for Advanced Host Defences, Immuno-biotics and Translational Comparative Medicine, USDA, and IDALS Animal Industry Bureau.

“Two of the three members of the family that owns the pet had suffered from influenza-like illness before the cat became ill,” said IDPH Public Health Veterinarian, Dr. Ann Garvey. “This is not completely unexpected, as other strains of influenza have been found in cats in the past.” Both the cat and its owners have recovered from their illnesses.

People can keep their pets healthy by washing hands, covering coughs and sneezes, and minimizing contact with their pets while ill with influenza-like symptoms. If your pet exhibits signs of a respiratory illness, contact your veterinarian.

“Indoor pets that live in close proximity to someone who has been sick are at risk and it is wise to monitor their health to ensure they aren’t showing signs of illness,” said Dr. David Schmitt, State Veterinarian for Iowa.