Pet cat tests positive for COVID-19 virus
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The case involves an American short-haired cat that lived in Sheung Wan. When the owner was confirmed as having COVID-19, the cat was sent for quarantine at the animal keeping facility at the Hong Kong Port of the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge on July 21. A sample collected from the cat by the department tested positive for the COVID-19 virus. However, the cat has not shown any symptoms at present. The AFCD will continue to closely monitor the cat and conduct repeated testing.
The spokesman reminded pet owners to adopt good hygiene practices (including hand washing before and after being around or handling animals, their food or supplies, as well as avoiding kissing them) and to maintain a clean and hygienic household environment. People who are sick should restrict contact with animals. If any changes in the health condition of the pets are spotted, advice from a veterinarian should be sought as soon as possible.
The spokesman emphasised that currently there is no evidence that pets are playing a role in the spread of human infection with the COVID-19 virus. Pet owners should always maintain good hygiene practices and under no circumstances should they abandon their pets.
Ends/Thursday, July 23, 2020
Issued at HKT 18:45
Issued at HKT 18:45
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