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The thought of cuddling your pet cat after a long day may offer comfort, but what if that same feline could unknowingly harbour a dangerous virus?
Recent research has raised concerns that our beloved domestic cats might serve as carriers of the H5N1 bird flu virus, offering a new pathway for the virus to evolve into a form that could more easily infect humans.
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How Could Cats Carry Bird Flu?
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The study, published in the Taylor & Francis journal, reveals that domestic cats could play a key role in how the H5N1 virus evolves. Since the virus started infecting dairy cattle over the past year, many cats on these farms have also become sick or died.
Though H5N1 hasn’t yet jumped from cats to humans, the close contact we have with our feline companions raises concerns. Researchers say the virus may need just a couple of mutations to spread more easily between people.
In fact, since the virus began circulating among dairy cattle, at least 60 people, mostly those who had direct contact with infected cows or poultry, have fallen ill.
Why Is It A Cause For Concern?
Unlike livestock or wild animals, domestic cats live closely with humans. This proximity could give the virus a chance to mutate and spread more easily. If a cat contracts H5N1 and the virus mutates within its body, it could potentially jump to humans.
The concern isn’t limited to cats alone. Other animals like red foxes, bears, and seals have also shown susceptibility to the virus. This wider range of hosts means the virus is adaptable, increasing the risk of further mutations.
What Is Bird Flu (Avian Influenza)?
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According to the Mayo Clinic, bird flu, or avian influenza, is caused by influenza type A viruses. The impact on birds can range from mild illness to severe, widespread deaths. The H5N1 strain is particularly deadly, having already caused the deaths of millions of birds.
In rare cases, humans can contract H5N1 through direct contact with infected birds or livestock. When this happens, the illness can be severe, with symptoms such as:
- Fever
- Difficulty breathing
- Conjunctivitis (pink eye)
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
Currently, H5N1 does not spread easily between people. However, the study highlights that the virus could mutate within cats, making human-to-human transmission more likely. Just one or two key genetic changes could increase the risk of a wider outbreak.
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Should Cat Owners Be Worried?
While there’s no need to panic, it’s wise to stay informed and cautious. There’s no evidence that cats have transmitted H5N1 to humans yet, but the potential risk exists. Here are some simple precautions to consider.
- Keep your cat indoors, as this reduces the risk of exposure to infected birds or contaminated areas.
- If your cat shows signs of illness, such as difficulty breathing, lethargy, or loss of appetite, consult a vet.
- Wash your hands thoroughly after handling your cat, especially if they roam outdoors.
Takeaway
While the risk of your cat transmitting bird flu to you is currently low, the evolving nature of the H5N1 virus is a cause for concern. Researchers and experts are keeping a close eye on the situation, and staying informed can help you protect both your furry friend and yourself.