Pet cat tests positive for COVID-19 virus
*****************************************
The case involves a domestic short-hair cat that lived in Lam Tin. When the owner was found to be infected with COVID-19, the cat was sent to the AFCD for quarantine on December 27. Samples collected from the cat by the department tested positive for the COVID-19 virus. However, the cat has not shown any symptoms. The AFCD will continue to closely monitor the cat and conduct repeat 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 have taken ill should restrict contact with animals. If any changes in the health condition of pets are spotted, advice from a veterinarian should be sought as soon as possible.
The spokesman emphasised that currently there is no evidence to show that pets are playing a role in the spread of infection with the COVID-19 virus among humans. Pet owners should always maintain good hygiene practices and under no circumstances should they abandon their pets.
As of today, eight dogs and eight cats have tested positive for the COVID-19 virus.
Ends/Monday, January 4, 2021
Issued at HKT 15:00
Issued at HKT 15:00
NNNN