Specialists urge avian flu monitoring in cats after surge in H5N1 infections

Based on stories, a College of Maryland examine warns that avian influenza infections in home cats are rising sharply worldwide, with scientists urging nearer surveillance because of the potential danger of the virus spilling over to people.

The evaluation, revealed in Open Discussion board Infectious Ailments, analyzed twenty years of worldwide knowledge (2004–2024) and located 607 avian flu infections in 12 feline species throughout 18 international locations. Home cats accounted for over 60% of instances, with 71% of PCR-confirmed infections proving deadly.

Most feline infections had been linked to extremely pathogenic H5N1, particularly the rising clade 2.3.4.4b, which has additionally contaminated different mammals. Transmission routes included consumption of contaminated birds or uncooked poultry feed, with instances concentrated in zoos, shelters, farms and rural areas.

“The virus has advanced, and the best way that it jumps between species — from birds to cats, and now between cows and cats, cats and people — may be very regarding,” mentioned the examine’s lead creator Kristen Coleman, PhD.

Researchers emphasised that cats’ shut contact with people makes them a possible bridge for zoonotic transmission, significantly in high-density environments like shelters.

Since April 2022, the U.S. has recorded 66 human H5N1 infections and one loss of life.