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draggonlaadyThe USDA has confirmed 2009 H1N1 influenza virus in a turkey breeder flock in Virginia. This is the first detection of the virus H1N1 in U.S. turkeys. Canada and Chile have already had cases in domestic turkeys. A worker at the Virginia farm had been sent home with flu-like symptoms, and has been identified as the possible source of infection.
Also on the USDA’s updated list is a cheetah in California that has tested presumptive positive for 2009 H1N1. We are currently communicating with the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and the American Association of Zoo Veterinarians (AAZV) to obtain more information and develop resources for veterinarians and the public.
On November 28, Xinhua (Chinese press) reported that two (2) dogs in Beijing tested positive for the 2009 H1N1 virus. We have not been able to confirm this report. We have contacted sources in China, requesting additional information about the history, signalment, clinical signs, diagnosis, treatment and outcome of these cases, but have not yet received the information.
At this time, the messages to clients remain largely the same:
*This is not cause for panic, but underscores the importance of taking pets to a veterinarian if they are showing signs of illness. This is especially important if someone in the household has recently been ill with flu-like symptoms.
*Ferret and cat owners should remain vigilant.
*There is no evidence to suggest that pets have or will spread the virus to humans or other animals. To date, all of the sick pets became ill after a person in the household was ill with flu-like symptoms.
*There have not been any confirmed cases of U.S. dogs infected with the virus, but based on the Chinese reports, it may be possible for dogs to become infected.
*Proper hygiene and sanitation measures should be followed to limit the spread of the influenza virus.
*Turkey and pork are still safe to eat. Nonetheless, proper food hygiene and preparation are very important when it comes to protecting your family from any food borne illness.
*It is safe to visit zoos.
As we receive and verify more information about these cases, we will update our 2009 H1N1 resources at http://www.avma.org/public_health/influenza/new_virus/default.asp.
Also on the USDA’s updated list is a cheetah in California that has tested presumptive positive for 2009 H1N1. We are currently communicating with the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and the American Association of Zoo Veterinarians (AAZV) to obtain more information and develop resources for veterinarians and the public.
On November 28, Xinhua (Chinese press) reported that two (2) dogs in Beijing tested positive for the 2009 H1N1 virus. We have not been able to confirm this report. We have contacted sources in China, requesting additional information about the history, signalment, clinical signs, diagnosis, treatment and outcome of these cases, but have not yet received the information.
At this time, the messages to clients remain largely the same:
*This is not cause for panic, but underscores the importance of taking pets to a veterinarian if they are showing signs of illness. This is especially important if someone in the household has recently been ill with flu-like symptoms.
*Ferret and cat owners should remain vigilant.
*There is no evidence to suggest that pets have or will spread the virus to humans or other animals. To date, all of the sick pets became ill after a person in the household was ill with flu-like symptoms.
*There have not been any confirmed cases of U.S. dogs infected with the virus, but based on the Chinese reports, it may be possible for dogs to become infected.
*Proper hygiene and sanitation measures should be followed to limit the spread of the influenza virus.
*Turkey and pork are still safe to eat. Nonetheless, proper food hygiene and preparation are very important when it comes to protecting your family from any food borne illness.
*It is safe to visit zoos.
As we receive and verify more information about these cases, we will update our 2009 H1N1 resources at http://www.avma.org/public_health/influenza/new_virus/default.asp.
no subject
Date: 2009-12-01 11:10 pm (UTC)