The first case of monkeypox in a domestic animal has been confirmed, warning of the risk of contagion. Details below.
The recent case of an Italian greyhound in Paris, the first domestic animal with monkeypoxcaused great concern. The greyhound presented blisters after contracting the disease from its owners, which raised concerns about the possible transmission of the virus from humans to petsHealth authorities have begun investigations to better understand the risk and assess whether domestic animals can carry the virus.
Research focuses on how the virus affects different species and the possibility that domestic animals play a role in transmissionIn the meantime, pet owners are advised to avoid close contact with animals if they are sick and to follow strict hygiene measures to reduce the risk.
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Recoletas Group
What is monkeypox?
Monkeypox is a viral zoonotic disease caused by the monkeypox virus, which belongs to the family Poxviridae. It was first identified in monkeys in 1958 and in humans in 1970. The disease It is transmitted mainly by direct contact with body fluids, skin lesions or mucous membranes of infected people or animals..
Although originally found in Central and West Africa, outbreaks in other regions began due to globalization and the exotic animal trade.
What are the symptoms?
In humans:
- Fever: Elevation of body temperature.
- Headache: Severe pain in the head.
- Muscle pain: Discomfort and pain in the muscles.
- Swollen lymph nodes: Swollen lymph nodes.
- Skin rash: Lesions that progress from red spots to fluid-filled vesicles and then to crusts.
In other animals:
- Lethargy: State of weakness and lack of energy.
- Lack of appetite: Decreased desire to eat.
- Cough: Forced expulsion of air.
- Nasal or ocular discharge: Discharge of fluid from the nose or eyes.
- Skin lesions: Eruptions similar to those of humans.
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Photo: Pixabay
Can monkeypox be transmitted between humans and pets?
The case of the infected dog in Paris opened the discussion on the possibility of monkeypox transmission between humans and pets. Although it is an isolated case, showed that the virus can be transmitted through close and prolonged contact with infected people. However, many aspects of how the virus interacts with different animal species remain unknown, and transmission between pets and humans remains an area of active study.
How to prevent contagion
- Avoid direct contact: Infected people should avoid close contact with their pets.
- Uninfected caregivers: It is recommended that someone who is not infected take care of the animals until the owner recovers.
- Home disinfection: Ensure that the home is properly disinfected.
- Pet isolation: Keep pets that have been in contact with infected people in isolation for 21 days.
- Constant hygiene: Wash your hands after handling pets.
- Waste management: Carefully manage waste to reduce the risk of contagion.
Source: Ambito
I am an author and journalist who has worked in the entertainment industry for over a decade. I currently work as a news editor at a major news website, and my focus is on covering the latest trends in entertainment. I also write occasional pieces for other outlets, and have authored two books about the entertainment industry.
