Per CDC: What to know Animals, including pets, can sometimes carry germs (like viruses, bacteria, parasites, and fungi) that can make people sick. These germs can cause many different types of illnesses in people and animals. Animals can appear healthy even when they are carrying germs that can make people sick, depending on the disease. The basics There are many diseases that can spread between animals and people. These diseases are caused by harmful germs like viruses, bact

Per CDC: Key points West Nile virus is most commonly spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Symptoms include fever, headache, body aches, vomiting, diarrhea, or rash. Severe illness can affect the central nervous symptom and result in hospitalization or death. No licensed vaccines or medicines are available to prevent or treat West Nile virus disease (West Nile) in people. Symptoms Most people infected with West Nile virus do not develop any symptoms. Mild illness S

Per CDC: Key points Tularemia is a potentially serious illness caused by the bacterium Francisella tularensis. People can become infected in several different ways, including tick and deer fly bites, and contact with infected animals (especially rodents, rabbits, and hares). Tularemia is a disease that can infect animals and people. Rabbits, hares, and rodents are especially susceptible and often die in large numbers during outbreaks. People can become infected in several way

Per CDC: Rocky Mountain spotted fever (RMSF) is a bacterial disease spread through the bite of an infected tick. Signs and symptoms Early signs and symptoms are not specific to RMSF (including fever and headache). However, the disease can rapidly progress to a serious and life-threatening illness. Signs and symptoms can include: Fever Headache Rash Nausea or vomiting Stomach pain Muscle pain Lack of appetite When to seek medical care If you become ill after having been bitten

Per CDC Key points Symptoms of Q fever can be mild or severe. There is not a vaccine to prevent Q fever available for use in the United States. Your healthcare provider may order certain blood tests if you are suspected to have Q fever. Most people who have Q fever will recover without antibiotics, but for symptomatic patients, doxycycline is the recommended antibiotic for treatment of Q fever. Risk factors People with certain jobs are at increased risk for exposure to Coxiel

Per CDC: Key points Psittacosis is a disease caused by bacteria that often infect birds. People who have contact with pet birds and live poultry are at increased risk. Psittacosis is usually a mild illness, though it can cause pneumonia. Be safe when handling and cleaning birds and cages to help prevent this disease. Symptoms Most people begin developing signs and symptoms within 5 to 14 days after exposure to the bacteria. Less commonly, people report symptoms starting afte