Infection Control for Pet Visitors

Introduction

Patients in hospital and other healthcare facilities are attracted to and enjoy petting animals. People need to be aware of the potential health risks and how to avoid them when pet visitors enter a healthcare environment.

What are zoonoses?

Zoonoses are diseases that can be passed from animals to humans. Animals may carry a range of germs without showing any signs of disease. Most zoonoses are uncommon and can usually be treated when detected. While there are dozens of zoonotic diseases, there are a few that are particularly dangerous to humans. Zoonoses include MRSA Campylobacter infection, cryptosporidiosis, salmonellosis, toxin producing E. coli, ringworm, Psittacosis, Q fever, hydatids, leptospirosis, toxoplasmosis and toxocariasis.