Pets exposed to people with monkeypox should be isolated to ensure they don’t spread the virus to other people or animals, U.S. health officials said after a dog was reported to be infected with the virus in Paris.
Because monkeypox can spread through close contact with an infectious person, people who have tested positive should be careful when cuddling or petting animals, according to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidance issued Friday. Pets may also pick up the virus through blankets or other household items used by patients, the CDC said, and if a pet appears to be sick, owners should contact a veterinarian.
“Pets that had close contact with a symptomatic person with monkeypox should be kept at home and away from other animals and people for 21 days after the most recent contact,” the Atlanta-based CDC said in a statement on its website dated Aug. 12. “Infected people should not take care of exposed pets.”
