Zoonotic Spread Raises Alarm as Bird Flu Infects Pets and Wildlife
Bird flu, a highly contagious strain of avian influenza, has shown alarming zoonotic spread across the United States, infecting pets and wildlife in 31 states and raising concerns about human exposure.
Rapid spread and zoonotic transmission
The virus, previously confined to farmed poultry and wild birds, has now been detected in domestic animals, including cats and dogs. USA Today reports that bird flu has also infected various wildlife species, such as mice, foxes, mountain lions, alpacas, and cows, in 12 states. Despite early assurances that dairy products would remain unaffected, the virus has spread to over 90 dairy herds.
Human and animal health concerns
Four human cases have been confirmed, and concerns are growing about potential human exposure, especially among pet owners. Since March 1, over 21 domestic cats in nine states have contracted the virus. According to Kristen Coleman, a researcher at the University of Maryland, “Domestic cats are actually highly susceptible to avian influenza, especially H5N1,” as reported by the New York Times.
The virus has affected feral, barn, and domestic cats, with a smaller number of cases reported in dogs. H5N1, a new strain of bird flu that emerged in 2020, has spread rapidly worldwide. Although cases in pets remain rare, they often result in severe illness and death, prompting scientists to take the threat seriously.
The CDC states that while the risk to humans is extremely low, there is a small chance of transmission if pets are infected. Experts believe the H5N1 virus could be present in a cat’s saliva, excrement, or other bodily fluids.
As the bird flu crisis escalates, the spread to pets and wildlife underscores the need for vigilant monitoring and proactive measures to protect both animal and human health.