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can guinea pigs catch flu

Can guinea pigs catch flu from humans?

Can guinea pigs catch flu from humans?

Influenza, commonly known as “the flu”, is an infectious disease caused by an influenza virus.

 Symptoms can be mild to severe.

The most common symptoms include: a high feverrunny nosesore throatmuscle painsheadachecoughing, and feeling tired  (source)

So can this affect a guinea pig?

Yes if you do have a respiritory infection such as the flu or a chest infection, you can pass it on to a guinea pig.

So if you are suffering from one of these afflictions, then make sure you do practice good hygiene. Make sure you wash your hands and limit handling your guinea pigs whilst you are sick.

Make sure you don’t kiss them at all or snuggle them as you may pass something on.

In fact, it is worth keeping away from them altogether if you have a respiratory disease and getting someone else to look after them during your recovery time.

If you don’t want to pass it on to your cavy and want to prolong their life, then this is worth considering