A person in Deschutes County, Oregon, has been diagnosed with a case of bubonic plague, making them the state’s first confirmed case of this rare bacterial infection since 2015.
The person was probably infected by their cat, and “all close contacts of the resident and their pet have been contacted and provided medication to prevent illness,” Dr. Richard Fawcett, the Deschutes County health officer, said in a statement last week. Common antibiotics like gentamicin and fluoroquinolones are first-line treatment for plague, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
The infected person was “treated in the earlier stages of the disease,” according to the statement, and poses “little risk” to the community.
—— From CNN
As a member of the family, pet cats bring endless joy and companionship. However, like humans, cats are susceptible to various viruses, posing potential threats to their health and ours. In this article, we will explore some common cat viruses, modes of transmission, as well as prevention and treatment methods.
Common Cat Viruses
- Feline Panleukopenia (Feline Infectious Enteritis): This is a highly contagious disease caused by the feline panleukopenia virus, which can lead to severe digestive and respiratory problems, even death.
- Feline Rhinotracheitis Virus: One of the common viruses causing cat flu, it can cause flu-like symptoms including sneezing, runny nose, and red eyes.
- Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV): This is a serious virus that weakens the cat’s immune system, making it more susceptible to other infectious diseases and even leading to malignant tumors.
Modes of Transmission
- Direct Contact: Close contact with infected cats, such as sharing food and water bowls or using the same litter box.
- Indirect Contact: Contact with objects or environments contaminated with the virus, such as secretions or feces left by infected cats.
- Airborne Transmission: Some viruses can be transmitted through the air, such as tiny droplets released when sneezing.
Hazards
- Hazards to Cats: Viral infections may lead to compromised immune systems in cats, causing severe illnesses and even death.
- Hazards to Owners: While most cat viruses do not transmit to humans, some viruses (like the feline leukemia virus) may affect human immune systems, especially in immunocompromised individuals.
Prevention and Treatment
- Vaccination: Regular vaccination is one of the most effective ways to prevent cat viral infections. Vaccines can help cats develop immunity to resist virus invasion.
- Maintaining Cleanliness: Regularly clean litter boxes, water bowls, and pet utensils to reduce the possibility of virus transmission in the home.
- Limiting Outdoor Activities: For cats susceptible to viral infections, limiting their outdoor activities can reduce the risk of infection.
- Regular Check-ups: Take your cat for regular veterinary check-ups to promptly identify and treat potential health issues.
- Consulting with a Veterinarian: If your cat shows any abnormal symptoms, immediately consult with a veterinarian for professional advice and treatment.
By taking preventive measures and regularly monitoring your pet’s health, you can significantly reduce the risk of your pet contracting viruses, providing them with a safe and healthy living environment.