Health officials are investigating how two cats in separate households in New York City became infected with H5 avian influenza, the virus that causes bird flu.
Acting Commissioner of the New York City Health Department Dr. Michelle Morse said local, state, and federal animal health officials and her department are involved in the probe.
“The current risk to New Yorkers of bird flu remains low,” Morse said. “Bird flu viruses present a wider risk to the general public only if the virus develops the ability to transmit between people—which we have not seen.”
Pet owners are being advised to take precautions to keep their pets safe.
“Pet owners are reminded not to feed their pets raw food or raw milk,” Morse said. “Additionally, pet owners should prevent cats from roaming outdoors where they may come in contact with wild birds or other animals.”
The latest infections follow feline infections in neighboring New Jersey.
Health officials said cats generally can become sick with the virus from consuming raw or undercooked meat or unpasteurized milk contaminated with the virus, exposure to infected birds or animals, or through contaminated clothing or items used on properties with confirmed infections.
Earlier this year, New York Gov. Kathy Hochul addressed concerns about bird flu outbreaks in live bird markets in the New York City boroughs of the Bronx, Brooklyn, and Queens. On Feb. 7, Hochul announced the temporary closures of the bird markets after inspectors detected seven cases of bird flu.
“These are just simply measured commonsense steps that will curb the spread of bird flu and ultimately to keep New Yorkers safe,” Hochul said during a press briefing.
