Bird flu for humans, cats, and cows? Parvo cure?

cat and bird

Today, I have good news and bad news. First the bad news. Dr. Samantha Uhrig, DVM, state veterinarian with the New Mexico Livestock Board, explains that “Since March 20, 2024, multiple dairies reporting an acute decrease in milk production in Texas and New Mexico have been diagnosed with highly pathogenic avian influenza (H5N1).” Should we haired humans be as worried as our feathered and uddered friends?

Even if you’re not a dairy farmer you should know that birds and cats who contract avian flu may show neurologic symptoms. Dr. Uhrig added that, “Individuals with exposure to animals with suspected or confirmed H5N1 should self-monitor for symptoms for 10 days after their most recent exposure. If they experience clinical signs including conjunctivitis or respiratory symptoms, they should contact their healthcare provider or local NMDOH public health office immediately for prompt testing and Tamiflu. NMDOH offers free testing and Tamiflu to exposed individuals. The NMDOH is available to answer questions (833-796-8773).” Panic? Not me. But I’m paying attention. You can visit nmhealth.org for updates.

 

puppy

The good news? Remember when a diagnosis of parvo infection in dogs – puppies in particular – was often a death sentence? When this nasty virus made its national debut around 1981 we were inundated with severely ill canine youngsters. Despite our best efforts parvo killed way too many of them. Vaccines have been effective but saving lives has remained a challenge. Now, modern medicine has delivered a treatment for early cases, called canine parvovirus monoclonal antibody (CPMA).

CPMA prevents the virus from entering and destroying the cells lining the intestinal wall. Infected dogs need this IV medication within 4 days post-exposure or immediately following a positive parvo test. Every infected dog who has received CPMA, so far, has survived.

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I will expound on behavior challenges of dogs and cats at the New Mexico Animal Friends meeting at 1 PM on Sunday, April 28 at the New Mexico Veterans Memorial Park, 1100 Louisiana Blvd. SE. Admission is free for everybody. Wear a hat and sunscreen but leave your pets at home.

For help with behavior problems, you can sign-up for a Zoom Group Conference on my website, drjeffnichol.com.

Dr. Jeff Nichol is a residency-trained veterinary behaviorist. He provides consultations in-person and in groups by Zoom (drjeffnichol.com). Each week he shares a blog and a video to help bring out the best in pets and their people. Sign up at no charge at drjeffnichol.com. Email pet behavior or physical questions to or by US Post to 4000 Montgomery Blvd. NE, Albuq, NM 87109.