Volume 5, Number 4—August 1999

Letter

Pet-Associated Zoonoses

Cite This Article

To the Editor: We read with interest the article by Grant and Olsen on preventing zoonotic diseases in immunocompromised persons (1). We completely agree with the benefits of communication between physicians and veterinarians. However, we want to emphasize that pet-associated illnesses are not limited to the immunocompromised; pregnant women and young infants should be included in this high-risk category. Our recently published survey (2) reaffirms the need for education of the general public, parents, and—to a lesser extent—pediatricians regarding pet-associated hazards.

References

1. Grant S, Olsen CW. Preventing zoonotic diseases in immunocompromised persons: the role of physicians and veterinarians. Emerg Infect Dis. 1999;5:159–63. DOIPubMed
2. Villar RG, Connick M, Barton LL. Parent and pediatrician knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding pet-associated hazards. Arch Pediatr Adolesc Med. 1998;152:1035–7.PubMed

DOI: 10.3201/eid0504.990433

Table of Contents – Volume 5, Number 4—August 1999