In a study published on 7th May, the CDC stated that there could be "potential contamination with the H5N1 virus" and warned of possible transmission from cats to humans.
Between November 2024 and January 2025 in the Los Angeles area, there had already been several cases of cats infected with the H5N1 virus, but until now, none had been transmitted to humans.
The Los Angeles investigation
In total, 19 cats showed signs of respiratory distress, liver or neurological problems after being infected with the H5N1 virus. Of these, 14 either died or had to be euthanised.
The families of the cats that died or were euthanised were tested, amounting to 139 people. Of the 25 who underwent blood tests, one asymptomatic veterinarian showed evidence of H5N1 infection after being exposed to an infected cat. However, the vet tested negative for the virus seven days after exposure.
Raw food diet identified as the cause
All 19 cats in the investigation had consumed raw milk, raw meat, or raw pet food. The food products were all commercially purchased.
This discovery marks the first documented transmission of the virus from a domestic pet to a human. The health advice for cat owners is not to give their pets raw milk, raw meat, or any other raw food.
