Hamsters and human colds?

[chez33]

We got our 2 last Saturday and have had them out every evening for 'taming' sessions, not for long about half an hour.
Today I have been shivering and am all bunged up and the kids have had temperatures too. I read that they can get human colds? is this true? haven't been near them today just in case.

How long should I leave it?

[hardcore-hammies]

Yes hamsters can catch colds from humans and ive read it can turn into pnemonia . Best to keep away until your colds gone

[Angelhamster]

They can catch colds and because they're so little, it can be life threatening for them. I don't know how long you should avoid handling them - perhaps others can advise. I hope all with the stays well and your family gets over your colds

[acapae]

They can't as far as I'm aware. The only time I limit my contact with my pets in terms of my own ill-health is the 2 days or so it takes for steroids to kick in when I've had ringworm.

[acapae]

Oooh, new knowledge! I didn't know that o.O Mice and rats certainly can't!

[chez33]

what an annoying time to happen!! just when they need contact the most! never mind, better to be safe than sorry! I will continue to sing Twinkle Twinkle Little Star to them every time I walk past!

[racinghamster]

Hi chez. As with most viruses (human or animal!) it`s wise to take precautions like using an anti-bacterial handwash before you handle the hamsters or have to go into their cage for any reason. You could pop one of those surgical masks on aswell, although you might feel a bit daft! Keep a clean hankie close by incase you need to sneeze into something and wash your hands right afterwards.

Humans can pass on things like strep throat and MRSA (we carry this up our noses where it can be swabbed from infected individuals) so it can be so easy to harbour an illness and not know that you have it. Children in particular can sneeze and cough a lot around small animals if they happen to have a cold or other sickness, so they too should use the same actions when in the room.

[Lynternette]

I have a chest virus at the minute so am keeping well away from Dusty. I just want to pet him My OH is looking after him for me.

[racinghamster]

Hope your feeling okay Lynternette. As long as you use precautions as stated above, you should still be able to handle Dusty, just make sure to wash your hands and no kisses or passing any sneezes or coughs his way. x