AVMA Updates H1N1 Flu Resources for Pet Owners, Veterinarians

SCHAUMBURG, Ill., Nov. 5 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Since the news broke of a housecat in Iowa testing positive for the 2009 H1N1 influenza virus, pet owners and veterinarians alike have been scrambling to learn more: Can my pet get sick? What would the symptoms of H1N1 in cats be? How is it identified? How is it treated?

The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) has been in constant contact with experts and agencies across the country to learn more about this case and share this information with the public and veterinarians. The results of these efforts are now available on the AVMA's Web site, where those wanting to learn more can access continuously updated "Frequently Asked Questions" on the 2009 H1N1 influenza virus, how the virus might affect pets, and what veterinarians should know when talking with clients and treating patients.

These resources, along with additional, frequently updated information on H1N1, are available on the AVMA's Web site at www.avma.org/public_health/influenza/new_virus.

For more information, contact Michael San Filippo, AVMA media relations assistant, at 847-285-6687 (office), 847-732-6194 (cell), or msanfilippo@avma.org.

The AVMA and its more than 78,000 member veterinarians are engaged in wide variety of activities dedicated to advancing the science and art of animal, human and public health. Visit the AVMA Web site at www.avma.org to learn more about veterinary medicine and animal care.