Monkeypox in Animals: Understanding the Role of Wildlife

Monkeypox is a zoonotic disease that can spread between animals and humans. Although the animal reservoir of the virus is not yet known, small mammals like rope and sun squirrels, giant-pouched rats, and African dormice are thought to maintain the virus in the environments of West and Central Africa. Humans can get infected with the virus through direct contact with infected animals, often while hunting, trapping, and processing infected animals or the infected body parts and fluids of animals. While small mammals can carry the virus without showing apparent symptoms, non-human primates can get sick with mpox and have signs of disease like humans.

The 2003 outbreak of mpox in domesticated prairie dogs is a clear example of animal-to-animal and animal-to-person spread. The prairie dogs got infected after sharing bedding and caging with a shipment of infected small mammals from West Africa, leading to 47 human cases in 6 states in the United States. This outbreak highlights the importance of reducing the risk of secondary infections to and from animals by isolating infected people as well as exposed and infected animals.

Mpox virus can infect a wide range of mammal species, including monkeys, anteaters, hedgehogs, prairie dogs, squirrels, and shrews. While we are still learning which animal species can get mpox, it is unlikely that reptiles, amphibians, or birds can get mpox as these animals have not been found to be infected with other orthopoxviruses. It is also important to note that not all animals may have a rash when they have mpox.

Infected animals can spread mpox virus to humans, and it is possible that people who are infected can spread mpox virus to animals through close contact, including petting, cuddling, hugging, kissing, licking, sharing sleeping areas, and sharing food. Mpox virus can be found in the rash caused by mpox (scabs, crusts, fluids) and infected bodily fluids, including respiratory secretions, and potentially in urine and feces.

Regarding pets and other animals, we are still learning about which mammals are susceptible to infection. Therefore, we should assume any mammal can be infected with mpox virus. Prairie dogs, squirrels, marmots, groundhogs, chinchillas, and giant-pouched rats can be infected with mpox virus, while gerbils, guinea pigs, hamsters, and mice are not yet confirmed to be susceptible to the virus. However, it is worth noting that not all animals of a certain type may be susceptible to infection, and susceptibility may vary by species and variety or strain of the animal.

Carnivores like dogs and cats can also potentially get infected with mpox virus. While cats are confirmed to be susceptible to other orthopoxviruses, there is currently no data on whether dogs are susceptible to mpox virus. One published report suggests that dogs may be susceptible to mpox virus, but follow-up investigations did not establish disease in the reported animal. Further research and surveillance are needed to determine whether dogs are susceptible.

Domestic rabbits, hedgehogs, shrews, and non-human primates like monkeys and apes are also susceptible to mpox virus. Meanwhile, cows, camels, goats, sheep, and pigs are still unknown whether they can be infected with mpox or other closely related orthopoxviruses. Wildlife such as raccoons, skunks, voles, badgers, coyotes, and foxes are also unknown if they can be infected with mpox virus or other orthopoxviruses.

Preventing monkeypox in animals

Preventing monkeypox in animals is crucial to prevent its transmission to humans. Here are some of the ways we can prevent monkeypox in animals:

1. Reducing contact between animals and people: As monkeypox is a zoonotic disease, reducing the contact between animals and humans is critical in preventing its spread. People should avoid handling, petting, or coming into close contact with wild animals, particularly those from endemic areas.
2. Promoting good hygiene: Good hygiene practices can prevent the transmission of monkeypox. People should wash their hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling animals or their waste products. Avoiding contact with animal bodily fluids, including urine and feces, is also crucial.
3. Isolating sick animals: If an animal is suspected to have monkeypox, it should be isolated from other animals and people. Proper quarantine and treatment should be initiated to prevent the spread of the virus.
4. Reporting suspected cases: If you suspect that an animal may have monkeypox, report it to the relevant authorities immediately. Early detection and treatment can prevent the spread of the virus.
5. Vaccination: Vaccination is a proven method to prevent monkeypox in animals. A vaccine is available for certain animal species, such as non-human primates, which are susceptible to the virus. Vaccination can also help reduce the risk of transmission from animals to humans.

What animals can get monkeypox (mpox)?

The tables below show what animals can get monkeypox, according to the CDC.

Can rodents get monkeypox?

Can dogs and cats get monkeypox?

Can rabbits get monkeypox?

Can hedgehogs get monkeypox?

Can monkeys and apes get monkeypox?

Can farm animals get monkeypox?

What other animals can get monkeypox?

*Indicates that not all animals of this type are susceptible, this may vary by species, and variety or strain of the animal.

^†One report suggests dogs may be susceptible to mpox. However, follow-up investigations did not establish disease. Further research is needed.

Conclusion

Monkeypox is a zoonotic disease that can spread between animals and humans. While small mammals are thought to be the primary animal reservoir for the virus, we are still learning which species of animals can get monkeypox. Infected animals can spread the virus to humans, and it is possible for humans to transmit the virus to animals through close contact. Preventing monkeypox in animals is crucial to prevent its transmission to humans. This includes reducing contact between animals and people, promoting good hygiene practices, isolating sick animals, reporting suspected cases, and vaccinating susceptible animals. By taking these steps, we can prevent the spread of monkeypox in animals and humans.