25/08/2022
Protect Yourself and Your Pet from Monkeypox Virus
The Monkeypox virus can spread to you and your pets.
- Animals infected with Monkeypox can spread the virus to people.
- It is also possible for infected humans to spread the disease to their pets through close contact.
- Close contact includes: petting, cuddling, hugging, kissing, licking, sharing of sleeping areas, and sharing of food.
- If you are infected with Monkeypox virus, avoid transferring the virus to your pets by avoiding close contact. Do not take care of your pets while sick.
- If you do not have close contact with your pets after showing symptoms, it is advised to ask friends or family members who live in a separate home to take care of your pets until you fully recover.
- If your pet had close contact with a symptomatic person with Monkeypox, it should be kept away from other animals and humans for twenty-one (21) days after the most recent contact.
- Do not wipe or bathe your pets with chemical disinfectants such as alcohol and hydrogen peroxide. Do not wipe or bathe them with other products such as hand sanitizers, counter-cleaning wipes, and/or other industrial or surface cleaners.
- While we do not know all the symptoms that an infected animal may have, make sure that you watch for potential signs of illness including lethargy, lack of appetite, coughing, nasal secretions or crust, bloating, fever, and/or pimple-like skin rash.
- If you are immunocompromised, pregnant, have young children, or with a history of atopic dermatitis known as eczema, do not provide care for your sick pets which had close contact with a person with Monkeypox.
- If a disposable gown is not available, wear clothing that can fully cover the skin (i.e. long-sleeved shirts, long pants). Then immediately remove and wash them after having contact with the animals, animal enclosures, or animal beddings.
Do not surrender, euthanize, or abandon your pets just because of a potential exposure to Monkeypox virus.
Call your veterinarian or nearest authorities (Local Veterinary Offices, Department of Agriculture Regional Field Offices, Bureau of Animal Industry) should you notice an animal that appears to be sick within twenty-one (21) days of having contact with a person who is suspected to have or confirmed to have Monkeypox virus.
