Cats and avian flu: If you also like to keep cats, be careful. Because a new study has warned that pet cats can spread bird flu. Its ravages have been observed on poultry farms in America over the past two and a half years. This study published in the magazine Taylor & Francis indicates that one or two mutations in cats help the viral strain easily reach humans. Let us tell you that the deadly strain of bird flu, often known as H5N1, has caused the deaths of more than 100 million birds. However, it does not spread easily between humans, but you should be vigilant about it.
How bats can increase the risk of bird flu
In April of this year, after the death of 10 cats in a house in South Dakota, researchers, after analyzing the corpses, discovered respiratory and nervous problems in them. The virus found in the cats was similar to that found in animals on a dairy farm about 50 miles away. Bird feathers were found near the bodies of the cats, indicating that they may have eaten wild birds, which had brought the virus from the farm.
Are cats more at risk of contracting bird flu?
The study found that, compared to other animals, cats have two receptors through which the bird flu virus and seasonal flu can easily enter their bodies. As the flu season progresses, there is growing concern that cats may be infected with the H5N1 virus and the seasonal flu virus simultaneously. Since cats live near humans, they can spread bird flu.
How is the virus transmitted from cats to humans?
Studies have shown that systemic infection increases in infected cats. They spread the virus through the respiratory and digestive systems, which can create many ways for them to come into contact with us or you. Although there is no evidence that cats transmitted the H5N1 virus to humans, scientists urge caution. Because if that happens, the situation could get worse.
Disclaimer: Some information in news stories is based on media reports. Before implementing any suggestion, you should consult the relevant expert.
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