Sometimes, when humans get sick from animals, it's because the animals are carrying tiny germs that can jump to us. These germs are like little invisible bugs hiding on our pets, when we pet them or play with them, those bugs can travel into our bodies and make us feel unwell. It’s kind of like sharing a sandwich: if your pet has a germ bug in their mouth, it might pass it to you!
Examples
- A child gets sick after playing with a dog that has fleas.
- Someone coughs after being near a sick chicken at the farm.
- An elderly person feels unwell after cleaning their cat’s litter box.
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See also
- Why are scientists concerned about bird flu in mammals?
- What is the true risk of hantavirus infection?
- Is your cat or dog overweight why simply feeding less doesnt always help?
- How are health authorities responding to the potential spread of Ebola?
- Are all emerging viral diseases of the past 100 years zoonoses?