Three more Oregon ferrets diagnosed with pandemic influenza H1N1

November 13, 9:05 PM

Three more ferrets in Oregon have tested positive for the 2009 pandemic influenza H1N1 virus, state officials confirmed this week. There are now four confirmed cases in the state. In early October, 2009, an Oregon ferret was diagnosed with the H1N1 virus which has since recovered.

Oregon state public health veterinarian Dr. Emilio DeBess confirmed the ferrets that tested positive for the H1N1 virus live in a group of nine ferrets that live with a Roseburg, Oregon area family. DeBess stated that members of the family that owns the ferrets displayed flu-like symptoms the week prior to the ferrets becoming ill. All nine ferrets were reported to have exhibited flu-like symptoms but only three were taken to a veterinarian where they tested positive for H1N1.

Dr. DeBess states there is no evidence that ferrets pass the virus to people or any other species.

Oregon public health veterinarians remind pet owners that if their pets show any signs of illness to immediately take precautions to reduce the spread of influenza between themselves and their pets. Precautions include washing your hands frequently, covering your cough and sneeze and avoid contaminating anything your pet comes in contact with.

The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) is monitoring reports of H1N1 in animals and provides updates on its website. The Oregon Veterinary Medical Association provides information on its website as well.