Is It Possible To Catch Infections From Pets After Touching Them?

Posted on Mon, 20 Apr 2015

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Mon, 20 Apr 2015 Answered on

Thu, 7 May 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : My nanny used her hand to feed baby after she touched a dog from store. In two days baby had fever. Wonder if dog be the reason of fever or just weather change

Answered by Dr. Dr. Rovena (55 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
detailed below.

Detailed Answer:
Hello.

Welcome to Healthcare Magic.

It is possible to catch s infection from pets ,if you eat without washing the hands after touching them.
So we can't exclude the possibility that the nanny has transmitted an infection to your baby during this episode but the probability is very low.
In this case your baby would have other symptoms like vomiting or diarrhea apart fever.
If your baby has fever,with a runny nose or cough ,it is unlikely to be related to
the episode and most likely is a viral infection.

Hope it helps.
Let me know if you need further help.I would be happy to answer.

Kind regards,
Dr.Rovena Murati

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Rovena (2 hours later)

Thank you for your brilliant answer. It is true , she is having a symtopmse like dirriar, slight cough, flu and fever 37 degree .

Answered by Dr. Dr. Rovena (5 hours later)

Brief Answer:
most likely it is a viral infection.

Detailed Answer:
Hello again.

Considering these symptoms ,most likely it is a viral infection that will resolve in its own in 5-7 days.
Try to give her a lot of fluids and small frequent meals.

I wish a quick and complete recovery to your baby.

Take care.
Dr.Rovena

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar