A sharp increase in cases of pasteurellosis, a bacterial infection transmitted through animal bites and scratches, has been linked to the surge in pet ownership during the lockdown in the UK. Statistics reveal a record high of 1,007 cases reported in England in 2025, marking an 8.9% rise from the previous year and representing the highest number recorded by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA).
The growing number of pasteurellosis cases reflects a hidden health consequence of the country’s increased pet ownership, especially following the rise in popularity of having pets at home during the Covid-19 pandemic. In 2020, there were only 659 reported cases, indicating a 53% surge in just five years. Pasteurellosis can lead to rapid swelling and pain, with severe cases potentially progressing to affect the blood or joints if left untreated.
Hospital data highlights the seriousness of the illness, with 189 patients treated in 2024/25, predominantly older adults aged around 60, though several cases involved children under 10. The infection, commonly spread by cats and dogs, has been steadily climbing since the onset of the pandemic, with infection rates increasing from 1.18 to 1.73 per 100,000 individuals.
Nearly two-thirds of infections were attributed to Pasteurella multocida, commonly found in cats, while another 18% were linked to Pasteurella canis associated with dogs. Experts suggest that the rise in cases is likely a result of the higher number of households with pets post-lockdown, leading to increased daily interaction with animals.
Although pasteurellosis can manifest quickly after a bite or scratch, causing swelling, redness, and pain, some of the reported increase may be due to enhanced awareness and diagnosis rather than a more virulent strain emerging. Notably, cat bites can introduce bacteria deep into tissues, heightening the risk of infections, with a higher incidence among women compared to men.
Unlike cat-scratch disease, which typically develops over days or weeks, pasteurellosis can take hold rapidly and potentially lead to severe complications such as bloodstream or joint infections if not promptly treated. Health experts emphasize the importance of thorough wound cleaning and prompt medical attention if symptoms arise, underscoring the need for individuals to disclose the cause of their injury for accurate diagnosis.
According to the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA), the upsurge in cases may be attributed to the growing number of pet owners post-pandemic and increased interaction with pets due to remote work arrangements. To mitigate risks, pet owners are advised to understand their pets’ behavior cues and signs of distress that may trigger biting or scratching incidents.
The UKHSA spokesperson highlighted that pasteurellosis in humans often manifests as a localized wound infection following animal bites or scratches, potentially evolving into severe soft tissue infections, abscesses, and other complications such as arthritis and osteomyelitis. Additionally, Pasteurella species can lead to conditions like meningitis, ocular infections, and respiratory issues, particularly in patients with preexisting pulmonary conditions.