Message Number: SG8517 | New FHL Archives Search
From: mysticswords@yahoo.com
Date: 2004-04-11 18:44:18 UTC
Subject: Questions about ECE
To: ferrethealth@smartgroups.com
Message-ID: <9883409.1081710120810.JavaMail.nobody@strontium.smartgroups.com>

We just added a new kit to our business about 1 1/2 weeks ago, and he came with
an unexpected extra--ECE. We're managing our sickie fine, but I have a few
questions about transmission of the disease.

I work at the animal hospital, so when I bring the ferrets in for fluids or any other
treatments, I have to leave them here all day while I work. The doctors here are
concerned that, because it's a coronavirus, ECE could potentially cross species, and
infect our patients. What are the chances of this?

Also, how long will my ferrets be considered carriers? Will any cage they are in have
to be closed off to ferrets (and other animals) for the rest of their lives? How
contagious is ECE without direct contact (that is, is fomite transmission a risk?)

We don't see many ferrets at this clinic, so this is our first experience with ECE. I'm
hoping the doctors are just being overly cautious, but I would also hate to
needlessly put our patients at risk just so that my ferrets don't have to stay in a
carrier all day.

Thank you very much for your time,

Becky
with Pixie (the sick one), Kodi, Twizzler, and introducing Tanner
missing Cinnamon, Coke, Chitterbox, and Yozum

[Moderator's note: Be sure to see the vet pathology resource:
http://www.afip.org/ferrets/ECE/ECE.html ]

End of ferrethealth Digest
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