Cat Gets H1N1 from its Family

This week, Time Magazine reports on a family pet who contracted H1N1.

The Iowa Department of Public Health reported the first confirmed case of H1N1 in a house pet, a 13-year-old domestic shorthaired cat. The animal likely contracted the virus from its owners, veterinarians say, since two of the three family members living in the cat's household had recently suffered from influenza-like illness.

The story said this may be rare and emphasizes that no cases of transmission has ever been seen from animal to human.  If pet guardians are still worried, here is some advice:

...vets recommend following the same guidelines that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention suggest for protecting family members — wash your hands frequently, cover your coughs and try to avoid close contact with your furry friends until you're well.

The full story at Time Magazine is here.

The CDC also answers the question: Can my pet get H1N1 here.