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| A cat is examined at the San Diego Humane Society clinic on April 21. Two cats in New York state have become the first pets in the United States to test positive for the new coronavirus, officials said Thursday (KST). AFP |
By Jung Min-ho
Two cats in New York state are the first pets in the United States to test positive for COVID-19, according to U.S. federal agencies Thursday (KST).
The animals, which are from separate areas of the state, showed mild respiratory symptoms and are expected to make a full recovery, the U.S. Department of Agriculture said in a joint statement with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
"Public health officials are still learning about SARS-CoV-2, but there is no evidence that pets play a role in spreading the virus in the United States," the statement said. "Therefore, there is no justification in taking measures against companion animals that may compromise their welfare."
A veterinarian tested the first cat after it showed mild respiratory symptoms. No humans in the household contracted the virus. Officials say it is possible the cat was infected from mildly ill or asymptomatic household members or people outside.
The second cat was also confirmed as infected after showing signs of respiratory illness. The cat's owner tested positive for COVID-19 before the animal became ill. Another cat in the household has showed no signs of illness.
On March 27 (local time), Belgian officials said a pet cat in the country was confirmed as the first human-to-cat transmission of COVID-19.
A week later in New York state, a Malayan tiger at the Bronx Zoo was confirmed as the first COVID-19 case in an animal in the United States or a tiger anywhere.
Officials say they need further research to understand if and how different animals can be affected. So far, coronavirus infections have been reported in few animals worldwide, mostly in those that had close contact with infected people.
"If you are sick with COVID-19 (either suspected or confirmed by a test), restrict contact with your pets and other animals, just like you would around other people," the statement said.
"If you must care for your pet or be around animals while you are sick, wear a cloth face covering and wash your hands before and after you interact with them."
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