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The influenza currently making its rounds is often referred to as "swine flu", although this is not completely correct. The virus actually contains DNA from swine, bird, and human influenza. Fortunately, cases in this country have been mild. It's in NY--first in New York City, now in two communities of western NY. I guess it's only a matter of time until it gets here.
Donna and I recently completed a seminar on avoiding contamination from suspect populations, and now we get to put it into practice. Hand washing is #1! Avoiding crowds is also a good idea in this case. Anyway, that wasn't the point of this post. I wanted to pass along a bit of info about H1N1 and pets. Here it is, from a few sources:
The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals released a statement yesterday saying the virus, which seems to have originated in Mexico, "appears to present a low risk of infecting cats and dogs." The American Veterinary Medical Association also is saying "there is no evidence that pets are susceptible to this new strain of influenza."
"At this time there is no data demonstrating any risk of dogs and cats contracting this strain of the virus," says Dr. Louise Murray, the Director of Medicine at the ASPCA's Bergh Memorial Hospital in New York City. "However, owners of pet pigs, as well as farmers, should monitor their animal's health more closely during this outbreak. Steps to limit possible transmission from humans to pigs and vice versa are recommended."
The ASPCA recommends keeping pet pigs and swine farms isolated from any public exposure that might put them at risk. There are Influenza type A vaccines available and recommended for healthy swine -- something owners of Vietnamese Potbellies, African Pygmies and other pet pigs should consider.
The American Association of Swine Veterinarians suggests that visitors should not be allowed into swine production units, and for humans to avoid unnecessary contact with pigs. Because there are many causes of illness in pigs, if your pet pig is unwell, it is recommended to consult with your veterinarian.
