Emergence of Avian Flu in Domestic Felines: When the Canary Swallows the Cat

Avian influenza A(H5N1) has been identified in the household cats of two dairy workers in Michigan.

Health authorities have long recognized the ability of avian influenza virus A(H5N1) to cross species from birds to humans and other mammals. Recently, A(H5N1) devastated the stock of U.S. chickens. Subsequently, cattle — and several poultry and cattle workers — were also infected with this virus. Now, the CDC reports infection with highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) A(H5N1) clade 2.3.4.4b influenza virus in two household cats in Michigan.

There was no direct contact between the two cats or members of the two households. However, one member of each household worked in a dairy farm. When the cats developed respiratory and neurologic symptoms, material was sent by their veterinarians to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Service…

Reviewing Author

Stephen G. Baum, MD

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Consultant/Advisory BoardClinical Infectious Diseases

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Editorial BoardsMedical Letter

Stephen G. Baum, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardClinical Infectious Diseases

RoyaltiesUpToDate

Editorial BoardsMedical Letter

Emergence of Avian Flu in Domestic Felines: When the Canary Swallows the Cat

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Reviewing Author