Many pet owners are anxious about the possibility of their pets contracting the H1N1 Flu Virus. Today we want to deal specifically with Pet Parrots and H1N1.
Apparently there have been some pets which have been diagnosed as having the H1N1 Flu Virus. These have been bought to our attention via the American Vetrinary Medical Association. The pets which were diagnosed were not Pet Parrots but we can see by the evidence provided that it is not impossible for the H1N1 Flu Virus to pass from humans to animals.
It has been reported that at least 3 pet ferrets and 1 cat have been bought to their veterinarians and were diagnosed as positive for the H1N1 virus. It was clear by the report that the animals did not pass the virus to the humans but that the humans had flu like symptoms and then a week or so later the pets became ill with the virus. They all recovered from the illness.
No matter which pets we own, pet parrots or dogs or cats etc. we should be following the same precautions we would with the rest of the population. This means that we must be sure to wash our hands before handling our pet parrots and if we, or someone in the family appears to be sick or getting sick, that their time with our pet parrots should be limited to what is necessary. By that I mean that if you are the only person who can attend to your pet parrots then make sure that you have washed your hands and if you have to sneeze or cough, be sure to sneeze or cough into your arm rather than into your hand. Deflect the germs into your arm rather than having the mucous spray into the air where it can become air borne and affect your pet parrots and those around you.
If there are others in the family who do not appear to be ill then it would be a good precaution to have them, rather than you, take care of the pet parrots care until you are better. Try to isolate yourself as best you can from your pet parrots until you know that you are well. Generally it is a good idea to keep yourself away from your pets until 24 hours after your fever has gone.
Pet parrots are generally very healthy but no one knows for sure yet what the outcome would be if you were to pass H1N1 onto them. Seeing as the H1N1 virus tends to attack the respiratory system we can only imagine that it would not be a very good thing if your pet parrots were to pick the virus up. Pet Parrots need immediate attention if they appear to be sick or suffering from any respiratory infection. Whether this be from H1N1 virus or any other virus that may be contacted.
With this said, be sure to take your pet parrots to a specialized avian vet if you notice any symptoms of ill health in your bird.
For more information on the H1N1 Flu Virus and Your Pets Click the Link
http://www.avma.org/public_health/influenza/new_virus/new_flu_virus_faq_pet_owners.asp
