feline distemper virus Questions PLEASE HELP

Hi,
I just adopted a cat from the north shore animal league. It currently has an URI and It had Pan Luke but it has been resolved but still can not be around other cats for 2 months. I live with my boyfriend in an apartment. I have two other cats that live with my mom. Is there any way if i go visit those cats they can get this!!! I'm so scared that i am going to give this to the other two cats. I have read that the virus lives in capets and furniture for years. Please help! I don't know what to do and i do still want to see the other cats.

Thanks =)
Melissa

This should answer most questions for you. It's a great article here on the catsite.

http://www.thecatsite.com/health/pan.html

I talked to my vet 2 days ago about distemper - had a kitten that was ill and he thought it might be that at first. He did say that distemper can be carried on your hands or clothing to other cats. The chance of catching it is obviously reduced if your older cats have been vaccinated. If you handle the new cat and go to your mom's, suggest that you wash your hands with disinfectant and change your clothes before going over there. The odds are low, but some precaution might be in order.