While you may not hear of it often, transmission of diseases from animals to humans does happen.
In January, a man in Alaska died after contracting what was believed to be Alaspkapox while living in a wooded area and caring for a stray cat that would hunt small animals. He is believed to be the first person to succumb to the virus, reported The Guardian.
Another person in Oregon was diagnosed around the same time with the bubonic plague. The individual, who is being treated with antibiotics, is thought to have been infected by a cat.
Humans are susceptible to diseases that “include bacterial infections like campylobacter and salmonella and parasitic infections like cryptosporidium, giardia and tapeworm,” Dr. Leana Wen told CNN.
Wen said there are various ways transmission can occur from animals to humans. One way is via the fecal-oral route. This transmission occurs when an individual comes into contact with animal feces, such as by drinking contaminated water.
Another route can occur through bites and scratches, like the bacterial infection known as “cat scratch disease.” Alternatively, an infected animal could infect someone by licking an open wound, for example.
Fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes can also spread disease from animals to humans. Dogs that pick up ticks can potentially transmit Lyme disease to their owner.
Wen said there are several ways to help reduce the chances of animal disease transmission.
- Fully vaccinate all pets.
- Bring sick animals to the veterinarian.
- Reduce contact with sick animals as much as possible.
- Maintain adequate hygiene — thoroughly wash your hands after handling feces or other animal waste.
- Avoid kissing your animal as much as possible.
- Keep areas where your pets live, whether inside or outside, clean.
- Inspect your animal for ticks after entering wooded areas and remove any identified ones immediately.
Earlier this month, The Dallas Express reported that a coyote in Arlington was captured after the animal was suspected of biting three children in the area. Fortunately, after being captured, the coyote tested negative for rabies, a viral disease typically transmitted to humans via domestic dogs.
