Cats Rarely Spread Viruses to Humans, but COVID-19 and Influenza Renew Pandemic Fears
Updated
Updated · The Washington Post · Jun 22
Cats Rarely Spread Viruses to Humans, but COVID-19 and Influenza Renew Pandemic Fears
2 articles · Updated · The Washington Post · Jun 22
Summary
Rabies remains the main cat-borne virus known to infect humans, while most feline viruses — including FIV, often compared with HIV/AIDS — generally do not cross into people.
COVID-19 and emerging influenza strains have revived concern because cats are highly susceptible to viral infections and could, in theory, help transmit or amplify viruses that infect humans.
The risk discussion centers less on traditional cat diseases than on newer viruses with broader host ranges, raising questions about whether cats could play a role in a future pandemic.