Animal Health And Welfare. COVID-19

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), no animals in the United States have been identified with the virus, and there is no evidence that dogs or other pets can spread COVID-19.

The CDC recommends that people who are sick with COVID-19 restrict contact with pets and other animals, just like you would restrict your contact with other people. When possible, a member of the household other than the individual who is ill should care for any animals in the household. Those infected with COVID-19 should avoid contact with animals, including petting, snuggling, being kissed or licked, and sharing food. Those who must care for a pet, or who will be around animals while sick, should wear an appropriate facemask and wash hands thoroughly before and after interacting with those animals.

What about the dog in Hong Kong?

On Thursday, February 27, a pet dog in Hong Kong tested “weak positive” for the virus that causes COVID-19. Its owner also tested positive for coronavirus. On Wednesday, March 4, another report was issued by the Hong Kong Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) indicating that a second test on that same pet dog had come back positive. According to the report, another dog  quarantined at the same facility (but in a separate room) was also tested, but the results were negative for the virus.

The precise meaning of the positive test result from the one dog remains unclear and further evaluation is ongoing. Hong Kong officials said that dog continues to show no clinical signs of illness, remains under quarantine and is being cared for, and will continue to be monitored and tested.

We will keep you updated you as we learn more. At this time, the CDC, the World Health Organization (WHO), and the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) say there is no evidence that companion animals, including pets, spread COVID-19.

As always, it’s a good idea to wash your hands after being around animals, and animal owners should continue to include pets and other animals in their emergency preparedness planning, including keeping a two-week supply of food and medications on hand.

The COVID-19 outbreak has raised concern about potential medical supply issues, including both pharmaceuticals and medical products such as personal protective equipment. No current shortages are reported by any of the 32 animal drug companies that make finished drugs or source active pharmaceutical ingredients in China for the U.S. market, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). However, six of the firms have indicated that they see supply chain disruptions that soon could lead to shortages.

The FDA is working with these firms to identify interventions to mitigate potential shortages and has done similar work on the medical product/device side. The agency is sharing information on its website about the availability of drugs and medical supplies.

The AVMA is working with the FDA to identify supply chain issues affecting veterinary medicine. Veterinary professionals and distributors should email the AVMA at [email protected] to report any supply chain issues of concern. Include detailed information about the product of concern and its manufacturer/distributor if possible.

The primary health concern related to COVID-19 is human health. The infection presents flu-like symptoms in people, including mild to severe respiratory illness with fever, cough, and difficulty breathing.

Researchers are working on a vaccine, but there is no antiviral agent yet proven to be effective against this disease, and no immunization is available. Person-to-person spread has been indicated in numerous countries, including the United States, and seems to occur when there is contact with an infected person’s bodily secretions, such as saliva or mucus droplets in a cough or sneeze.

Prevention and awareness are important to reduce the spread of the disease:

• Avoid people who are sick, and avoid going out in public if you think you might be sick.
• Call your physician if you experience a fever and respiratory issues.
• Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze.
• Regularly disinfect objects and surfaces in your home and workplace.
• Avoid touching your face, especially your eyes, nose, and mouth.
• Wash your hands often. Use soap and water, and wash for at least 20 seconds.

The time between infection and presentation of symptoms in people is not yet known with confidence, but initial estimates are approximately five to seven days. The COVID-19 quarantine period for people is 14 days.

The U.S. State Department has issued the following travel advisories referring to COVID-19:

• Level 4: Do not travel – China and Iran
• Level 3: Reconsider travel – Mongolia, South Korea, and Italy
• Level 2: Exercise increased caution –Japan, Hong Kong, and Macau

Airlines and other carriers have reduced or cancelled international flights, and businesses have also adopted protective measures addressing travel and operations in affected areas.