Can humans transmit flu to animals?
Sandra Blick
2025-07-24 20:11:55
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While there are a few documented cases of the flu or a cold being transmitted between dogs and humans, this is extremely rare. Although viral mutations can occur, influenza viruses are generally considered species-specific. Therefore, it is considered safe to be around your pet when you have the flu or a cold, but you may consider practicing good hygiene when you are sick to reduce the already negligible risk even further. Don’t cough directly towards your dog and wash your hands after blowing your nose. If you’re sick, it is considered safe to spend time around your fur baby but consider practicing good hygiene to reduce the risk of transmission.
Brant McLaughlin
2025-07-18 18:09:54
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Most influenza A viruses circulate naturally in wild birds; however, these viruses can also adapt to spread in people and other animals. These animals include, but are not limited to ducks, chickens, pigs, whales, horses, seals, cats, dogs, and cows. Many different animals can carry or be infected with influenza A viruses. It is uncommon for people to get influenza virus infections directly from animals. However, sporadic human infections and outbreaks caused by certain avian and swine (variant) influenza A viruses have been reported.
Arne Shanahan
2025-07-10 10:11:36
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: 17
Pets can indeed catch colds and flu, though the viruses that affect them are typically different from those that infect humans. Pets typically catch a cold or get the flu through direct contact with an infected animal or contaminated objects. Viruses can be spread through sneezing, coughing, or sharing food and water bowls. Kennels, grooming salons, and pet daycare centres are common places where pets might pick up these infections. Maintain good hygiene: Regularly clean your pet’s bedding, toys, and food bowls to prevent the spread of viruses. Practice good personal hygiene, such as washing your hands after handling other animals, to reduce the risk of spreading germs to your pet. Avoid infected animals: If you know of other pets that are sick, try to keep your pet away from them until they have fully recovered.
Roxane Heaney
2025-07-01 09:20:53
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Pets won’t catch or spread human viruses. You can’t get a cold or the flu from your dog or cat. Even somebody who pets the dog or cat after you is unlikely to catch your virus that way. Flu is transmitted person-to-person through close personal contact. If you get within my breathing zone, within three feet, I can transfer that influenza virus to you. I breathe it out, you breathe it in, and you can be infected. The pet is a comfort, not a hazard.
Felipe Hoeger
2025-06-22 14:53:12
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: 18
You'll be happy to know that similar to the common cold, your dog won't get the flu if a human member of the household is sick. The flu virus is spread from one person to another person, so make sure to cover your coughs and sneezes. However, there is a canine-specific influenza you should be aware of. Some infections, viruses, or even bacteria are species-specific, which is why you don't need to worry about sharing a common cold or the flu with your dog. A human cold can only affect humans, it cannot be transmitted to animals.
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