What is the bacteria that can be passed to humans via cat scratching?

Our question this week was:

Dear Dr.Debra, I would ask about the specific species of bacteria. What kind of bacteria that it can be passed to humans via cat scratching?

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Allina D.

Answer

Hi – thanks for your email Allina. You asked what kind of bacteria can be passed from cat to people from a scratch wound from a cat.

Cat-scratch Disease (CSD), also known as Rochalimaea henselae or Bartonella henselae, is an infection in humans that most often occurs after prolonged contact with a young cat. When diagnosed in cats this disease is called feline bartonellosis. It is caused by a bacteria called Bartonella henselae.

An article that might be helpful to you is Bartonellosis (Cat-scratch Disease).

Best of luck!

Dr. Debra

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