How Do People and Cats Get Infected?
Cats may get infected with Bartonella henselae bacteria from flea droppings and flea bites that penetrate their open wounds. When they bite at the fleas or scratch, cats would pick up the infected droppings between the teeth or under the nails. In addition, they would be infected when fighting with other cats with the bacteria. In turn, infected cats may scratch or bite at people and spread the disease. They can also spread the condition when licking an open wound on your skin. [3]
Who Are at Risk for Cat-Scratch Disease?
Those who often interact with cats or own this pet may be at risk of getting cat-scratch disease. It is reported that the condition is most prevalent in children from 5 to 9 years old and in the southern states of the US. You are more prone to serious illness and severe symptoms if you have a compromised immune system. Those who would fall into this category include women during pregnancy and people who are living with transplanted organs, HIV/AIDS, diabetes, or cancer. [4]
