Coronavirus has become a global problem, and there is almost no country where there are no confirmed cases. Given that in most countries, coming weeks present the culmination of the epidemic, there is no doubt that there is certain panic among people. Everybody has a lot of questions about the new virus, and as it has become commonplace in modern society, the answers are sought on the Internet, social networks, etc.
In addition to uncertainty, there is fear among people as there is no yet enough reliable and secure information on Covid-19. Simply, this virus is still not well known and doesn’t have a well-defined drug or vaccine to help. Fortunately, each of us can contribute and help suppress the pandemic by having to #stayathome, and therefore #staysafe.
However, among the many issues, one is particularly interesting. Namely, many want to find out if there is a real chance our pets to get infected with coronavirus, and if we already have our pet infected with Covid-19, will we get infected too? More specifically, can the virus be transmitted from human to animal, and vice versa? Well, we will try to give you the answers you are looking for.
If you keep up to date with the latest updates on coronavirus, you will see that everyone is talking how this virus is most dangerous for chronic patients and old people. However, can our pet be infected and transmit it to us?
In some cases, it is possible. Namely, about two months ago, in February, one case of a new virus infection in Hong Kong was confirmed. According to Kobipets a test report conducted by the AFCD (Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department) of Hong Kong, one dog was infected, but was actually infected by its owner. On the other hand, its owner had all the symptoms of the new virus. When it came to infected Pomeranian, it had no significant human-specific symptoms.
Another study conducted in China found that cats were susceptible to the virus. However, the fact that only 5 animals have been tested and included in the study must be taken into account.
Also, shortly after, news emerged that a cat in Belgium was infected with a coronavirus. However, experts there confirmed that this was an “isolated case” and could not constitute a definitive conclusion on the matter. Besides, we have to add that after a few days, the infected cat has recovered.
What is the opinion of experts from the World Health Organization when it comes to transmitting virus from humans to animals and vice versa? Well, hey stated in mid-March that the chances of transmitting new coronavirus from animal to human are very small. Even there are confirmed cases where pets became ill, however, they didn’t show significant symptoms or complications due to infection. Therefore, they cannot be considered as the source of infection.
As you can see, a pet can be infected in certain cases, but it’s very unlikely to happen. In addition, it is very unlikely that your pet will become a source of infection and transmit a new coronavirus to you. So, for now there is no need to worry. Don’t forget to #stayathome, and to #staysafe.
