We hear so many questions about whether or not gliders can catch the flu, colds, mono, and whatever.

Unfortunately there just isnt alot of studies done on this (if any)and so we just dont know for sure. Just because you had the flu and your glider did not catch it doesnt mean another glider wont be susceptible.

I prefer to err on the side of caution and follow good practices if I am sick and just keep them away from my face, and wash my hands well before touching them. If I will cook for my hubby I will cook for them and vice versa. If I am feverish and weak, and sneezing and coughing a lot, I will avoid playtime with them to minimize risk of exposure.

In trying to find some answers, I did find this interesting link:
http://www.cfsph.iastate.edu/BRM/resources/Disinfectants/VirusFamilyTable.pdf

Very interesting Jill Marie. We know that cross contamination can take place between ourselves and our gliders where bacteria or parasites are involved. However, we are not 100% sure about viruses.

I am aware of a case at the Johannesburg zoo where several gliders died from Toxoplasmosis. Toxo seems to be a virus.

However, when I asked my vet if it is possible for toxo to be transferred by human to sugar gliders, she seemed to think that chances are slim.