OLYMPIA, Wash. — A study by University of Washington researchers confirmed humans that tested positive for COVID-19 can transmit the SARS-CoV-2 virus to animals that live in the same household.
A total of 23 pets tested positive for antibodies to SARS-CoV-2. While this is not the first case of human-to-animal transmission in the U.S., this is a first for Washington state.
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“While there is no significant public health risk, we would advise pet owners who are COVID-positive to take measures to protect their pets from the virus.”
“These detections are not a surprise given the other cases reported across the country,” Washington State veterinarian Dr. Brian Joseph said.
The Washington State Department of Health suggests people that are ill remain in home isolation and avoid direct contact with their pets and, if possible, allow another person to care for the pet.
If an infected person must care for a pet, the DOH suggests wearing a mask and washing hands before and after interacting with pets.
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