Earlier this month, over 100 cats homed at the New York City animal shelters were reported to have acquired the H7N2 strain of avian flu. The latest report from the NYC Department of Health said that the virus has been transmitted from cats to the shelter's veterinarian.

The infected practitioner is the only one who has tested positive among 350 individuals who were screened. The veterinarian working in the Animal Care Centers (ACC) in Manhattan has reportedly already recovered from mild symptoms.

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The National Public Radio (NPR) said that this is not the first time the H7N2 has infected cats. However, this is the first reported case of cat-to-human transmission of the viral strain.

Patient Zero was described as a 12-year-old, frail cat suspected to have eaten an infected pigeon or come into contact with a sick cat.

Dr. Jay Varma said: "unfortunately, it initially developed mild illness and progressed to pneumonia and eventually was euthanize." Deputy Commissioner for disease control of NYC added that putting the animal to sleep was the "humane thing to do."

Meanwhile, other infected cats only manifested mild symptoms. The Department of Health noted that risk of transmission is "very low." It was elaborated that H7N2 and seasonal influenza share the same symptoms including conjunctivitis, fever, sore throat, cough, and muscle pain and medications against two viruses are available. However, those with compromised immune system and pregnant women are more likely to develop complications.

Health authorities have warned pet owners not to "allow sick animal to kiss or lick your face." Further, pets who show signs of diseases should be immediately sent to a veterinarian.

Due to the bird flu scare, adoption has been stopped for now while sick pets are placed under quarantine.