An Italian greyhound owned by a gay couple has been infected with monkeypox in the first reported case passed from a human to their pet. The French couple, involved in a non-monogamous relationship, are believed to have contracted monkeypox following sexual contact with other men.
They said they noticed pustules on their dog’s stomach. A PCR test later confirmed the pooch had contracted the virus. The animal had shared a bed with the two men and had licked at least one of them before licking itself, according to the Lancet Medical Journal.
Both men, ages 44 and 27, suffered from extensive ulcers and rashes since their cases were confirmed in June. And just 12 days after their symptoms began, the dog began showing signs it had contracted the virus. The couple said they had been careful to keep their dog isolated from other pets or humans from the onset of their own symptoms. Officials have said those infected with the virus should quarantine away from their pets to reduce transmission.