What are the chances an infected pet will infect other animals, or even the veterinary staff, while at my clinic?
We don’t really know. To date, evidence has supported that the pets that have been infected with the 2009 H1N1 flu virus were infected by their owners. There is no evidence that the pets spread the virus to any other animals or to people. However, because we don’t fully know the risk, animals suspected or confirmed to be infected should be managed in the same manner as a pet with a viral respiratory infection. Veterinarians and veterinary staff treating and handling pets with respiratory disease and a history of flu-like illness in the pet’s home should consider the use of facial protection covering their mouth, nose and eyes. Veterinarians can refer to the Compendium of Veterinary Standard Precautions for Zoonotic Disease Prevention in Veterinary Personnel for additional guidance.
