Cats and the Avian Flu Virus

For the Birds:  Cats in Manhattan Contracted a Strain of Avian Flu

            In late December, a number of cats at a Manhattan animal shelter were confirmed to have contracted a rare but relatively non-virulent form of avian flu known as H7N2.  One veterinarian in close contact with the cats also contracted this strain of influenza though symptoms were mild and the veterinarian has recovered. 

            Approximately 45 cats are experiencing runny nose, cough and mild fever, but most are not seriously ill.  Patient zero was thought to be an older kitty who developed respiratory symptoms which then progressed to pneumonia leading to severe illness and euthanasia.  How she contracted the flu virus is unknown.  The remaining cats appear to be recovering.

            While the risk of humans contracting H7N2 from cats is very low, the State Department of Agriculture is monitoring the situation as this strain of avian flu has been found in turkeys in Pennsylvania in 2002-2003.  Some of the cats from the outbreak in Manhattan are currently in several shelters in Chester County, PA and are under quarantine.  They are doing well and pose no serious risk, but adoptions of cats from these shelters is currently suspended until more information can be gained to attempt to prevent spread to other cats, but, more importantly to area poultry flocks.  Simple good hygiene such as hand-washing is strongly encouraged to prevent spread.

            A message from the health department states: "H7N2 virus has been spreading from cat to cat. There is no evidence at this time that it is causing human disease, and the risk of H7N2 virus spreading from a cat to a person is thought to be low. However, do not allow your sick animal to kiss or lick your face, and it is advisable not to cuddle with your cat if it has a flu-like illness. These precautions are even more important for persons with compromised immune systems, such as those who are being treated for cancer, or who have other chronic health conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, liver disease or kidney disease."

                The risk to cats in York County is currently very low and Patton Veterinary Hospital has not seen any suspected cases of this form of flu.  However, if your cat has a persistent cough, runny nose or is lethargic as with fever, please contact us or make an appointment to have your cat checked by your veterinarian.

                This blog brought to you by the Patton Veterinary Hospital serving Red Lion, York and the surrounding communities.

Sources:

 http://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2016/12/20/506285387/a-rare-bird-flu-infects-cats-in-new-york-city-shelter

https://flutrackers.com/forum/forum/animal-diseases-of-concern-excludes-h5n1/influenza-in-animals-excl-h5n1/766518-pa-agriculture-department-tests-monitors-cats-possibly-exposed-to-influenza-h7n2-in-nyc-shelters