DM2 Pt1-6 Other Viruses Flashcards
What causes avian influenza in birds?
Avian influenza is caused by a type A influenza virus, specifically the H5N1 subtype.
How does the severity of avian influenza infection in birds vary?
It can range from mild disease with little mortality to highly fatal, rapidly spreading epidemics (highly pathogenic avian influenza).
How can cats become infected with avian influenza?
Cats can be infected via the respiratory or oral routes, such as by eating infected birds.
What conditions increase the risk of avian influenza infection in cats?
Cats are at risk if they live in an area with confirmed H5N1 infection in birds, have outdoor access near waterfowl or poultry, or contact infected cats.
What are some clinical signs of avian influenza infection in cats?
Fever, lethargy, dyspnoea, conjunctivitis, rapid death, and neurological signs like circling or ataxia.
What diagnostic steps should be taken if avian influenza is suspected in a cat?
Oropharyngeal, nasal, rectal swabs, or faecal samples should be submitted for PCR and/or virus isolation. Post-mortem samples from lungs and lymph nodes should be obtained.
How should suspected cases of H5N1 in cats be managed?
Cats should be kept in strict isolation, and the virus is sensitive to standard medical disinfectants.
What statement did the World Health Organization make about H5N1 in cats?
There is no evidence that domestic cats play a role in the transmission cycle of H5N1, and no human cases have been linked to infected cats.
What personal protective measures should veterinarians take when handling a suspected H5N1-infected cat?
Minimise contact with the cat, wear gloves, masks, protective eyewear, avoid saliva and secretions, and sedate the cat before collecting samples.
How should veterinary staff and practice animals be protected from an H5N1-infected cat?
The cat should be kept in isolation in a cage at the veterinary clinic.
What should owners do to protect themselves from a suspected H5N1-infected cat?
Confine the cat to a separate room, minimise contact, disinfect litter trays and bowls, and clean rooms the cat accessed before the clinic visit.
What virus causes rabies in cats?
Rabies is caused by a virus from the genus Lyssavirus.
How is rabies virus inactivated?
Rabies virus is easily inactivated by detergent-based disinfectants.
What is the source of rabies infection in cats?
Rabid animals are the only source of infection, and the virus is shed in saliva before clinical signs appear.
How is rabies virus transmitted?
Rabies is transmitted through a bite, scratch, or contact with mucous membranes.
What is the average incubation period for rabies in cats?
The average incubation period is 2 months but can vary from 2 weeks to several months or years.
What are the two disease manifestations of rabies in cats?
The two forms are the furious form and the dumb form.
Which form of rabies is more common in cats?
Nearly all rabid cats (90%) show the furious form.
How long is the clinical course of rabies in cats before death occurs?
Death occurs within 1–10 days after clinical signs appear.
How is a definitive diagnosis of rabies made?
A definitive diagnosis is made by post-mortem laboratory investigation.
Is post-exposure rabies vaccination of cats allowed?
Post-exposure vaccination is forbidden in many countries and depends on national regulations.
When is rabies vaccination considered a core vaccine?
Rabies vaccination is a core vaccine in countries with endemic rabies and is a legal obligation in many places.
Why is rabies vaccination important for cats traveling internationally?
Cats traveling to countries with rabies (e.g., Europe from the UK) must be vaccinated as per international regulations.
What is a concern related to rabies vaccination in cats?
There is concern about vaccine-induced sarcomas related to rabies vaccination.
