As global health officials continue in their endeavour to contain the new coronavirus, a number of questions remain, including whether pets are at risk of developing the virus.
The disease caused by the virus — named COVID-19 — was first detected in Wuhan, China, in late December. Since its discovery, the virus has spread human-to-human to nearly 30 countries, infecting more than 69,000 people and killing more than 1,600.
Health officials believe it is transmitted human-to-human mainly through droplets.
The origin of the virus is believed to be linked to a “wet market’ in Wuhan, but officials have not been able to definitively pinpoint a specific animal host and the investigation is ongoing.
Shortly after the virus was detected, China announced it would be halting its trade of wildlife.
But, according to the World Health Organization, there is currently “no evidence” that companion animals or pets like dogs and cats can be infected with the virus.
“However, it is always a good idea to wash your hands with soap and water after contact with pets,” the organization’s website’s myth-busting section reads. “This protects you against various common bacteria such as E. coli and Salmonella that can pass between pets and humans.”
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