BY: SAMANTHA BARTLETT, DVM

Monkeypox shares the Orthopoxvirus family with smallpox and cowpox. With the eradication of the smallpox virus, monkeypox is now the most important orthopoxvirus in relation to public health.

The virus was first discovered in colonies of research monkeys and has since been discovered in several rodent species in Africa. African rodents are suspected to be the main reservoir host, but this is not yet confirmed.

In late July 2022, the World Health Organization declared a global monkeypox emergency. Disease transmission so far involves close contact with another infected person. The virus can be transmitted through respiratory droplets, wounds in the skin, contact with fomites and through ingestion of infected meat.

Monkeypox is a disease of mammals. To date one case of a dog infected with monkeypox outside of Africa has been reported. It is thought the dog received the infection from an infected human. It is unknown if cats are susceptible but it is thought probable based on the behavior of other Orthopoxviruses.  People with monkeypox are advised to have someone else care for their pets or limit their contact with their pets while suffering from the virus.

The AVMA has developed a webpage to provide information for pet owners and veterinarians regarding monkeypox. The page includes information on diagnosing and preventing the spread of monkeypox as well as how to report suspected cases. The page can be accessed at https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/one-health/veterinarians-and-public-health/monkeypox.