Can Conjunctivitis Be Transmitted From Cats to People?

by Kenya
(New Kensington, PA, USA)

QUESTION:

Can humans contract conjunctivitis, herpes, or chlamydia, from cats?



Hi, Kenya,

Chlamydial conjunctivitis can be, but is rarely, transmitted from cats to people. Herpes virus is not.

If you are around a cat with conjunctivitis, it makes sense to wash your hands well after touching or treating the area around the eyes.

Other than taking that precaution, it is of little concern. I have handled thousands of cats with conjunctivitis and have never had it. My technicians, likewise, never get conjunctivitis and neither have my clients over the last 18 years.

Of course, it always makes good sense when you have any type of illness to tell your physician about any animals you live with or have been around. Very rarely, it may prove to be helpful diagnostically and with treatment.

Thank you for writing,
Dr. Neely