Two cats in Santa Barbara County died after contracting hen flu, in keeping with the Public Health Department (SBCPHD).
County officers say after testing optimistic for the flu, the cats developed extreme neurological sickness.
The cats reportedly belonged to 2 totally different households. Health officers are investigating the supply of the infections.
SBCPHD officers say cats could also be uncovered to hen flu by consuming contaminated birds or different animals, being in environments contaminated with the virus, and consuming unpasteurized milk from contaminated cows.
Officials say hen flu could be transmitted from mammal to mammal, however there have been no recognized instances of the virus being transmitted from cats to people on this nationwide H5N1 hen flu outbreak.
“Currently, there is no such thing as a proof of native cat-to-cat, cat-to-human or human-to-human unfold of H5 hen flu, and the danger to most of the people continues to be low,” SBCPHD mentioned in a press launch. “However, individuals who come into shut contact with wild birds and their feces, contaminated cats, contaminated poultry, or with contaminated dairy cattle or their milk, have the next stage of danger of publicity.”
County well being officers shared the next tricks to scale back the danger of spreading or contracting hen flu:
- Avoid uncooked dairy and undercooked meat merchandise: Do not drink uncooked milk or eat uncooked cheeses and undercooked meat merchandise. Do not feed these to your pets.
- Raw milk, even from wholesome cows, could also be contaminated with dangerous germs that may make you and your pets very sick. Freezing uncooked milk doesn’t eradicate the dangerous germs which may be within the product.
- Limit contact with sick animals: Avoid unprotected contact with sick or lifeless animals, together with birds, or any supplies contaminated with hen feces. Avoid dealing with wild birds and observe them solely from a distance. If you need to deal with wild birds, even when they seem wholesome, put on a well-fitting masks and gloves, and apply good hand hygiene, as some birds might carry the virus with out exhibiting signs.
- Report sick or lifeless birds: If you come throughout any sick or lifeless birds, contact the suitable businesses listed under for correct dealing with and help. Symptoms can fluctuate; contaminated birds or animals could also be unable to fly, have seizures, have problem strolling or be discovered lifeless.
- Protect pets or poultry: Keep pets or poultry away from wild animals and birds. Ensure that wild birds can’t defecate in areas holding or housing pet birds or poultry.
- Get a seasonal flu vaccine: People are inspired to obtain a seasonal flu vaccine.
To report a sick or lifeless animal which will have H5N1, contact the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) or the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA):
