Details on the cat, carrying virus H5N1, discovered in Germany
Translation from http://www.grippeaviaire.gouv.fr

Article last updated: March 2, 2006 09:32

Official statement of the ministry of Agriculture and Fishing

A cat carrying virus H5N1 was found dead on the German island of Rügen (near the Baltic sea). More than 100 wild birds were also found carrying the H5N1 virus, on this island where a strong "pressure" of the virus prevails. The possibility of transmission of the virus to cats had already been reported in the zones of strong viral "pressure" (Asia).

Last week, France had considered the possibility of contamination to cats by engaging l’AFSSA (French Food Health Safety Agency) on the possibilities of transmission to the carnivorous animals and the precautions to be taken. A response from the AFSSA is awaited before the weekend.

While waiting for the conclusions of l’AFSSA, it is highly recommended, in the zone where virus H5N1 was detected (Dombes region of eastern France, see maps), not to let the cats outdoors without monitoring.

Additional recommendations will be communicated, if necessary, after reception of the response from AFSSA.