Guidance offered for pets
On Saturday, May 2, the Cape May County Department of Health reported a new COVID-19 death, an 85-year-old from Lower Township, and four new cases of the coronavirus. On Sunday, cases increased by 11, bringing the countywide total to 361 so far.
Of the 361 cases, health officials reported 155 of the residents affected are now off quarantine.
Upper Township leads the county with 27 active cases, but Lower Township, which as 15 cases as of Sunday, also has 26 cases in long-term care facilities. Of the 23 reported deaths from COVID-19 in Cape May County, 17 have been in long-term care facilities, including 15 in Lower Township. The other two were in Dennis Township.
Lower Township is reporting two others deaths. Upper Township has two COVID-19 fatalities and there is one each in Woodbine and Dennis Township.
Middle Township has 24 active cases, Wildwood has 17, Ocean City has 11, Dennis Township has seven (plus 20 in long-term care), Woodbine has four (plus 21 in long-term care), North Wildwood has three and there is one each in Avalon, West Cape May and Wildwood Crest.
There were no active cases as of Sunday in Cape May, Cape May Point, Sea Isle City, Stone Harbor and West Wildwood.
Of the active cases, 111 are in the communities and an additional 72 are in long-term care facilities.
COVID-19 in pets
“At this time, it is rare for animals to contract COVID-19, but there have been a few cases in the United States. There is no recommendation currently for routine testing in animals. Public health officials are still learning about the virus, but there is no evidence that pets play a role in spreading the virus in the United States. However, since animals can spread other diseases to people, it is always a good idea to wash your hands after being around animals,” said county Health Officer Kevin Thomas.
The department offered the following guidance:
In rare situations animals can become infected with the virus that causes COVID-19, and they may experience mild signs of illness. There is no evidence that animals can spread the disease to people. Call your veterinarian with any concerns about your pet’s health. The veterinarian will determine if they need to see your pet. Please let them know if anyone in the household has signs of COVID-19 before visiting the animal hospital.
Until more is known, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends the following:
– Do not let pets interact with people or other animals outside the household.
- Keep cats indoors when possible to prevent them from interacting with other animals or people.
- Walk dogs on a leash, maintaining at least 6 feet from other people and animals.
– Avoid dog parks or public places where a large number of people and dogs gather.
Individuals that are sick should restrict contact with pets and other animals. Limit contact with animals until more information is known about the virus. When possible, have another member of your household care for your animals while you are sick. If you must care for your pet or be around animals while you are sick, wash your hands before and after you interact with pets and wear a facemask.