House Cats Test Positive for Bird Flu

In a shocking development, two house cats from separate households in New York City have tested positive for bird flu, according to an announcement from the city's health department. This revelation raises significant concerns about the transmission of the virus beyond its traditional avian carriers.

Investigating the Source

While health officials have not disclosed the current health status of these infected felines, they are actively investigating the source of their infection. Pet owners are being urged to take precautionary measures by keeping their cats indoors and avoiding feeding them raw food or raw milk, which are known to be common vectors for the transmission of avian influenza.

Public Health Reassurance

Michelle Morse, the acting commissioner of the New York City Health Department, reassured the public, stating, "The current risk to New Yorkers of bird flu remains low." She emphasized that the broader risk to public health arises only if the virus gains the ability to transmit between humans, a situation that has not yet occurred.

Human Cases of Bird Flu

However, it is worth noting that since the onset of the current bird flu outbreak in 2022, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported 70 human cases, including one fatality, which highlights that while bird flu is primarily a concern for avian species, humans can be infected, mostly through close contact with infected birds or contaminated environments.

Closure of Bird Markets

Compounding these concerns, on February 7, New York Governor Kathy Hochul ordered the temporary closure of all live bird markets across New York City and several adjacent counties—82 markets in total—following the detection of avian flu in seven poultry markets located in Brooklyn, the Bronx, and Queens. These markets will undergo thorough cleaning and disinfection to mitigate any further spread of the virus.

Advisories for Pet Owners and Residents

As health officials continue to monitor the situation, pet owners and residents are advised to stay informed and to practice caution to protect both their pets and themselves from potential exposure to bird flu.

Conclusion

Stay tuned for further updates on this evolving health crisis, as awareness and vigilance are key in preventing the spread of avian influenza in urban areas!