8000 cats
ISLAMABAD: A worrisome strain of COVID, designated F-CoV-23, which has caused over 8000 cat fatalities in Cyprus, has now emerged in the UK.
The infected cat was transported into the country from Cyprus, sparking concerns about the well-being of British pets. Although not directly linked to COVID-19, F-CoV-23 is identified as a variant known as feline infectious peritonitis (FIP), falling under the category of coronaviruses.
This strain, believed to be a hybrid of existing feline and canine coronaviruses, led to a significant outbreak in Cyprus, killing at least 8000 cats
Research conducted by the University of Edinburgh, the Royal Veterinary College, and the Cypriot government indicated that the infected cat in the UK shared a “genetic fingerprint” with 91% of the cats infected in Cyprus.
Cypriot authorities reported over 8,000 cat deaths in the first half of 2023, with estimates suggesting the actual number could surpass 300,000.
The infected British cat, exhibiting symptoms, has undergone testing and treatment. Scientists highlight a “significant risk” of the outbreak spreading further, although they acknowledge the confirmation of the first UK-imported case is pending peer review.
Unlike previous feline coronaviruses, F-CoV-23 appears to spread more easily and no longer relies on changes or mutations in the host.
While there is currently no evidence that this strain can infect dogs or humans, experts advise cat owners not to confine their pets indoors or isolate them from other animals, as there is no apparent threat to humans or dogs.
The Health care experts have forewarned the cat lovers of COVID risks for pet cats.
