Owners need to be aware that ferrets are very sensitive to influenza
virus. Flu vaccines are routinely tested on ferrets prior to release
to the people.

The first "official" report of a human-to-ferret transmission of the
H1N1 ("swine flu") virus has been documented by the US Department
Agriculture by the Oregon Public Health Veterinarian.

On Oct 5th, Oregon ferret owners brought their pet to a local
veterinary clinic for flu-like signs: fever, weakness, coughing and
sneezing. A sample from the ferret tested positive for the H1N1 virus,
read on Oct 8. The ferret is recovering.

The article reports that "In the past five years the flu virus has
mutated into a strain called H3N8, which infects dogs. It's not known
to transmit to humans. No known strain infects cats, and neither cats
nor dogs can carry H1N1." The article, published Oct 20, 2009 in The
Oregon: "Ferret gets swine flu from its owner, a first" can be found
at:
<http://www.oregonlive.com/pets/index.ssf/2009/10/ferret_gets_swine_flu_from_its.html>

What can you do to prevent your ferret from catching the flu from you?

After coming home from work/shopping, wash you hands thoroughly with
soap and water prior to touching your pets. Avoid handling ferrets if
you are experiencing flu-like signs and symptoms. [See your doctor.]
Do arrange to have someone else take care of your ferrets until you
are no longer sneezing, coughing or febrile for at least 24 hours.
Treatment for your ferret: See your veterinarian. This will mostly be
"symptomatic treatment" - fluids, rest, etc.

F. Hoffman
The American Council for Ferret Health, Welfare & Policy -
Washington, DC

[Posted in FML 6493]