Can Humans Contract Kennel Cough from Dogs?

Learn if humans can get kennel cough, how rare it is, and what precautions reduce the risk of transmission from dogs.

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Humans can very rarely get kennel cough, but it's extremely uncommon. The bacteria Bordetella bronchiseptica, which often causes kennel cough in dogs, can infect humans with weakened immune systems. Good hygiene practices, such as washing hands after handling animals, can help mitigate risk.

FAQs & Answers

  1. What is kennel cough? Kennel cough is a contagious respiratory disease commonly affecting dogs, caused by a combination of bacteria and viruses, including Bordetella bronchiseptica.
  2. Can kennel cough be transmitted from dogs to humans? Transmission of kennel cough from dogs to humans is extremely rare, typically occurring only in people with weakened immune systems.
  3. How can I protect myself from kennel cough when around dogs? Practicing good hygiene such as washing hands after handling dogs and avoiding close contact with infected animals helps reduce the risk of kennel cough transmission.

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