This case report describes the nosocomial transmission of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in an immunocompromised resident clinic cat. The feline patient, likely infected via exposure to raw meat fed within the clinic, presented with severe respiratory symptoms. Diagnosis was confirmed through molecular methods identifying influenza. This incident highlights a critical lapse in infection prevention and control measures, particularly concerning food handling and biosecurity protocols in a veterinary setting. The immunocompromised state of the cat likely contributed to the severity of the infection. This case underscores the zoonotic potential of HPAI and the importance of stringent biosecurity.
Key note: Strict infection prevention and control, including safe food handling, are crucial in veterinary clinics to prevent zoonotic disease transmission, especially for immunocompromised animals.