For the latest news, please see the H1N1 and Animal News Archive
A news station in Hastings, Nebraska (KHAS) has reported that Stormy the ferret, one of four ferrets in a family of humans sick with the flu, has died from the H1N1 virus.
According to the news report:
Testing was done by the University of Nebraska Veterinary Diagnostic Lab where the ferret tested positive for H1N1. The state public health veterinarian said it is not unexpected, but it is rare. Only 2 ferrets in the nation have died from H1N1. That includes Stormy.
A second sample has been sent to a national laboratory for confirmation of H1N1 infection.
Note: The AVMA reports that "this news story incorrectly reports 2 known ferret deaths from H1N1. To date, the Nebraska ferret is the only confirmed H1N1-infected ferret death."
Ferrets have respiratory systems similar to humans and are known to be susceptible to human flu viruses. At this time, infectious disease specialists do not think dogs and cats are at risk for H1N1 infection. There have been no reports of dogs or cats with H1N1 infection to date. Pet birds may be at risk, since the H1N1 jumped to turkeys last summer. Caution is also advised for pet pigs.
Proper hygiene and sanitation (wash hands, bowls, tools and clothing) and isolating sick individuals are your best defense against the flu viruses for all species.
It should be noted that dogs and cats have their own flu viruses, notably the H3N8 flu virus in dogs currently in the news.
Related:
- H1N1 (Swine Flu) News - Ferret Tests Positive in Oregon
October 20, 2009 - Can My Dog or Cat Get H1N1 (Swine) Flu?
Flu Q & A - Frequently Asked Questions About 2009 H1N1 Flu Virus
From the AVMA, updated often - Nebraska Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory
Laboratory home page - Canine H3N8 Influenza Vaccine - Who is at risk?
FAQ about the vaccine and dogs considered at risk for this flu
Photo: Burt the Ferret by GenGlo on Flickr. Used with permission.
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