In Hong Kong, a pet dog was tested ‘weak positive’ of coronavirus and then placed into quarantine.
Hong Kong’s Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) has confirmed that repeated tests have been suggested that the dog had a “low-level” of the virus and was likely to be a case human-to-animal transmission.
Other than that, the dog had not shown any other symptoms for the illness, but its owner has been confirmed being infected with Covid-19.
Because of that, pet owners are becoming increasingly concerned about catching the fatal disease from their pets – but is it possible?
Can I get coronavirus from my pet?
In April, a study has shown that cats are “highly susceptible” to coronavirus and can be quickly passed between them. However, only five cats were included in the experiment.
This study follows the news that a cat has reportedly contracted the coronavirus in Belgium. Still, the country’s health authorities said that it was an “isolated case” and not “the rule.”
In March this year, the World Health Organization said, “at present there is no evidence that companion animals or pets such as dogs or cats can be infected with the new coronavirus.”
Other several global health organizations have issued statements saying that there is no evidence that pets can spread coronavirus or be infected with it in the same way as humans.
“Therefore, there is no justification in taking measures against companion animals which may compromise their welfare,” the World Organization for Animal Health stated.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention corresponded that “there is no reason to think that any animals including pets in the United States might be a source of infection with this new coronavirus.”
A veterinarian specializing in swine viruses at Kansas State University, Raymond R.R. Rowland, noted that “weak positives” often show up in pigs, where a farmer’s likelihood can be at stake.
Even though the Pomeranian has a low-level infection, he said: “that doesn’t say the animal is sufficiently infected that it can spread the virus.”
The dog can also be a host for the illness that has not become unwell or has infected other animals.
Shall I alter my behavior with my pet?
The World Health Organisation declares:
“It is always a good idea to wash your hands with soap and water after contact with pets.
“This protects you against various common bacteria such as E.coli and Salmonella that can pass between pets and humans.”
The WHO advises the following steps to protect yourselves from catching the coronavirus:
- Cover your mouth and nose while sneezing, with a tissue or your elbow
2. Put the tissue straight into a closed bin
3. Wash your hands afterward, and then frequently, with soap or sanitizer
4. Keep your distance from people who are coughing and sneezing (at least one meter)
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