A new article from USA Today answers some of the most common questions regarding coronavirus, and one of the questions was about the safety of our pets. Machell from Buffalo Grove, Illinois wrote:

"Are infected people able to transmit the virus to their pets and visa versa?"

"While there has been one instance of a dog being infected in Hong Kong, to date, there is no evidence that a dog, cat or any pet can transmit COVID-19. COVID-19 is mainly spread through droplets produced when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or speaks. To protect yourself, clean your hands frequently and thoroughly."

The USA Today article adds:

"Scientists concluded that pet cats and dogs can test positive for low levels of the pathogen if they catch it from their owners, but pets can't get sick from the virus."

Another article from ScienceMag.Org warns that there are still a few concerns, though. Even though there is no evidence that pets can infect other pets or humans, the situation is "rapidly evolving," so more information will be released as it's learned. The quote from Hong Kong’s Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department says:

“We strongly advise that mammalian pet animals including dogs and cats from households with … infected persons should be put under quarantine … to safeguard public and animal health.”

The study from Hong Kong last week goes on to say that pet owners should not be overly concerned and should adopt/maintain good hygiene practices. It adds that "under no circumstances should they abandon their pets."

You can read more from that particular study HERE.

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