A recent study published by U.S. health authorities indicates that humans could potentially transmit avian influenza to domestic cats, raising concerns over elevated levels of the virus in animal populations across the country.

The study, conducted in May 2024, focused on two households where indoor cats exhibited symptoms of the disease.

In both cases, residents of the households worked in dairy farms known to be affected by avian influenza, with one individual transporting unpasteurized milk.

The affected cats ultimately succumbed to the illness, with one being euthanized due to the severity of its condition.

This study suggests possible pathways for disease transmission to felines, especially as other domestic cats have also been reported to have contracted the virus through their food sources.

As of January 2025, the United States is experiencing an epizootic situation, akin to an epidemic among animals, with the virus widely circulating within poultry farms and affecting cattle.

The virus has also been detected in other mammal species, including red foxes and various breeds of felines, which has prompted concern among experts regarding the potential for viral mutations that could facilitate human-to-human transmission.

Since 2024, approximately 70 individuals in the U.S. have been reported infected with the disease, with the first related fatality recorded earlier this year.

Health experts suggest that the actual number of infections may be significantly higher due to limited testing efforts.

Most reported symptoms in infected individuals have been mild.

The recent appointment of Robert Kennedy Jr. as head of the U.S. Department of Health has raised additional alarm among experts.

Kennedy is a controversial figure known for his anti-vaccine stance and strong advocacy for unpasteurized milk, a product that has previously been associated with contamination issues.