Evidence is increasing that perhaps the cat becomes infected with the causative organism, but it does not appear to produce any disease in the cat. Very little is known or understood about the role of the cat as a reservoir for this disease. A cat scratch is sometimes, but not always, associated with this disease. An increased risk of transmission is present when a kitten is involved, as opposed to adult cats. Most cases are reported in the fall and winter, but the reason for its apparent seasonality remains unknown.
Antibodies are proteins which are produced by the immune system in response to some stimulus.
Very few of those testing positive have actually had the disease. The majority have had inapparent infections or have been exposed to the CSD organism without any disease occurring. This is generally a mild disease in humans. Many people experience fever, chills, and lethargy which last only a few days. Unless the skin test is performed or the organism is cultured, it may be diagnosed as influenza.