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What are
coronaviruses?
Coronaviruses
are a large family of viruses. Some strains affect animals, while
others affect people. The majority of coronaviruses stick to their
own species. COVID-19 has not been proven to circulate between people
and animals.
Can animals
become ill with COVID-19?
To date, the
Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has not received any reports of
pets or livestock becoming sick with COVID-19 in the United
States. The first case of an animal testing positive for the
virus in the United States was a tiger, that had a respiratory
illness, at a zoo in New York City.
The CDC is
aware of a very small number of pets outside the United States to be
infected with the virus that causes COVID-19, SARS-CoV-2. Infectious
disease experts and multiple international and domestic human and
animal health organizations agree there is no evidence at this point
to indicate that animals spread COVID-19 to people. Further studies
are needed to understand if and how different animals could be
affected by COVID-19.
Can people
get the virus from animals?
At this time
there is no evidence to suggest any animals, including pets or
livestock, can spread COVID-19 infection to people.
Should any
animal showing signs of respiratory illness be tested?
If your pet is
showing signs of a respiratory infection, consult with your
veterinarian so they can assess the animal for common respiratory
illnesses. The TAHC, Department of State Health Services (DSHS), USDA
and CDC do not recommend routine testing of animals for this virus.
Because the situation is ever-evolving, public and animal health
officials may decide, out of an abundance of caution, to allow
testing of certain animals after consulting with the attending
veterinarian.
Should I avoid contact with pets or
other animals if I have COVID-19?
Although there have not been reports
of pets becoming sick with COVID-19 in the U.S. it is still
recommended that people sick with COVID-19 limit contact with animals
until more information is known about the virus. When possible, have
another member of your household care for your animals while you are
sick. If you are sick with COVID-19, avoid contact with your pet,
including petting, snuggling, being kissed or licked, and sharing
food. If you must care for your pet or be around animals while you
are sick, wash your hands before and after you interact with them.
Are there
any livestock movement restrictions?
What
services are considered Essential Critical Infrastructure for Food
and Agriculture?
On March 19,
2020 the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) identified the
specific industries that comprise Critical Infrastructure Industries including
food and agriculture. The list of services included in the critical
food and agriculture infrastructure can be viewed here.
Are
livestock markets open?
Livestock
markets are open and continue to operate across the U.S. and Texas.
Please contact your local market if you have questions. Please note,
livestock markets are working with their state and local
public health officials to implement appropriate measures
to reduce the spread of COVID-19.
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