2019 Novel Coronavirus (2019-nCoV) and Animals

January 29, 2020 — 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is closely monitoring an outbreak of respiratory illness caused by a novel coronavirus first identified in Wuhan, Hubei Province, China. Additional cases have been identified in a growing number of other international locations, including the United States. [Source: CDC]

For more information about 2019-nCoV, visit https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/index.html.

For travel information, visit https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/index.html.

For Frequently Asked Questions and Answers, including questions and answers about animals and animal products, visit https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/faq.html.

Q: What about animals or animal products imported from China?
A: CDC does not have any evidence to suggest that animals or animal products imported from China pose a risk for spreading 2019-nCoV in the United States. This is a rapidly evolving situation and information will be updated as it becomes available. The United States Department of Agriculture regulates external icon the importation of animals and animal products, and CDC regulates the importation of animals and animal products capable of spreading human disease.

Q: Should I be concerned about pets or other animals and 2019-nCoV?
A: While this virus seems to have emerged from an animal source, it is now spreading from person-to-person. CDC recommends that people traveling to China avoid animals both live and dead, but there is no reason to think that any animals or pets in the United States might be a source of infection with this new coronavirus.

Q: Should I avoid contact with pets or other animals if I am sick?
A: Do not handle pets or other animals while sick. Although there have not been reports of pets or other animals becoming sick with 2019-nCoV, several types of coronaviruses can cause illness in animals and spread between animals and people. Until we know more, avoid contact with animals and wear a facemask if you must be around animals or care for a pet.