Avian flu, risks for pets

The US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued an alert to medical practitioners and research facilities, emphasising the imperative of surveillance for probable instances of H5N1 infection. This virus is characterised by its high degree of pathogenicity, which poses a significant threat to the health of domestic felines, who are more susceptible to infection than canines. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued recommendations to pet food manufacturers, suggesting that they review their food safety plans. It is paramount to ensure that the raw materials used do not originate from infected animals. The transmission of H5N1 to cats and dogs can occur through contaminated foodstuffs, such as raw meat or unpasteurised eggs. Cats, in particular, are susceptible to developing severe illnesses or even dying from this infection, while dogs tend to show less severe symptoms. Furthermore, to enhance the monitoring of human H5N1 infections within the United States, the US CDC has issued a call for healthcare professionals to meticulously collect comprehensive data concerning their patients, with a particular emphasis on their potential exposure to both domestic and wild animals.