Did You Know Pets Can Transmit Infections To Humans?

New research published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal shows that pets can transmit illnesses to people; a health problem that could be particularly problematic for those with weakened immune systems, children and the elderly. 

Study findings revealed that people and veterinarians are generally unaware of the risks, with 77 percent of households obtaining a new pet following a cancer diagnosis that was classified as a high risk animal. 

"Studies suggest physicians do not regularly ask about pet contact, nor do they discuss the risks of zoonotic diseases with patients, regardless of the patient's immune status ," said Jason Stull, assistant professor at Ohio State University's Department of Veterinary Preventive Medicine, in a news release. 

Researchers found that nearly all pets can transmit Salmonella, multidrug resistant bacteria Campylobacter jejun and other diseases. Bites from certain parasites, including hookworms, roundworm and Toxoplasma make transmission of infection more direct.

"Reptiles and amphibians are estimated to be responsible for 11 [percent] of all sporadic Salmonella infections among patients less than 21 years of age, and direct contact with such animals is not required for zoonotic transmission," the study authors wrote. "In one study, 31 [percent] of reptile-associated salmonellosis cases occurred in children less than 5 years of age and 17 [percent] occurred in children aged 1 year or younger; these findings highlight the heightened risk in children and the potential for reptile-associated Salmonella to be transmitted without direct contact with the animal or its enclosure."

While healthier individuals are at a lower risk of contracting an illness from a pet, younger children, those with weakened immune systems and the elderly hold a considerably higher chance of dealing with infection.

"Given the health benefits of animal ownership and the reluctance of patients to give up their pets, resources highlight the importance of following specific precautions," Stull said. "Patients at high risk and their households should have increased vigilance of their pets' health and take precautions to reduce pathogen transmission."