Pet cat tests positive for COVID-19 virus
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     A spokesman for the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) said today (December 4) that samples from a pet cat sent to the AFCD had tested positive for the COVID-19 virus.

     The case involved a domestic short-hair cat that lived in Tung Chung. As the owner was a close contact of a confirmed COVID-19 case, the cat was sent to the AFCD for quarantine on December 1. Samples collected from the cat by the department tested positive for the COVID-19 virus. However, the cat currently has not shown any symptoms related to COVID-19. The AFCD will continue to closely monitor the cat and conduct repeat testing.

     The spokesman reminded pet owners to adopt good hygiene practices (including hand washing before and after being around or handling animals, their food or supplies, as well as avoiding kissing them) and to maintain a clean and hygienic household environment. People who have taken ill should restrict contact with animals. If any changes in the health condition of pets are spotted, advice from a veterinarian should be sought as soon as possible.

     The spokesman emphasised that currently there is no evidence to show that pets are playing a role in the spread of infection with the COVID-19 virus among humans. Pet owners should always maintain good hygiene practices and under no circumstances should they abandon their pets.

Ends/Friday, December 4, 2020
Issued at HKT 19:42

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