Canine Influenza
Canine influenza is a newly
emerging infectious disease caused by a virus known as H3N8. This influenza “A” virus only affects dogs.
This “flu” virus is highly contagious, relatively new, and dogs have no natural
immunity to it. While 100% of dogs are
susceptible and able to spread the virus to other dogs, 80% will show mild
signs of infection, and 20% of dogs will show more severe signs including a
high fever (104F – 106F) and pneumonia.
A small number have died from complications associated with the disease.
Often canine influenza is not
suspected until the illness becomes unusually severe or lasts a long time. The mild disease seen in 80% of dogs consists
of a lasting cough, low-grade fever, nasal discharge and a lack of energy with
loss of appetite. It may be confused
with kennel cough because the signs are very similar. Canine influenza is hard to diagnose. Nasal and blood samples often may not confirm
the disease, as most patients are not seen until the illness becomes severe or
more chronic in nature.
The risk of infection increases
with certain venues or activities. Group
training, dog kindergarten and doggie daycare in addition to boarding at a
kennel are examples. Visiting a groomer,
dog parks and daily walks with other dogs also places your dog at risk. Shopping at pet stores and waiting rooms at
veterinary clinics also increase the risk of exposure. Canine influenza spreads the same way that the
human flu spreads- direct contact, cough or sneeze and contaminated hand, clothing,
or other surfaces.
As with all viral diseases, the
illness must run its course, with no specific treatment except supportive
care. 20% of canine influenza infections
can become complicated by secondary bacterial infections. These cases often require hospitalization,
x-rays fluids and antibiotics. Cough
supplements should not be used because the cough is moist and productive.
Recently, a new canine influenza
vaccine was approved for use in the U.S.
If your dog is presently being vaccinated for kennel cough (Bordetella),
it is likely a candidate for canine influenza vaccine, H3N8. The vaccine was
proven sage, well tolerated, and clinically proven to significantly reduce the
severity of illness and the length of time that a dog is sick. The initial vaccination requires 2 doses, 2-4
weeks apart, followed by annual revaccination.
Since first reported in Florida in 2003, canine influenza has spread to 30 states
including the entire eastern seaboard and Delaware.
Here at Governors
Avenue Animal
Hospital, the Doctors
have followed both the progress of the disease and the track record of the
vaccine in the field for the last year.
We now feel that the time has come for us to recommend this
vaccine for our canine patients. Your
veterinarian is the best person to answer any further questions you have about
canine influenza. In addition, you may
find it helpful to visit the following web site:
www.avma.org/public_health/influenza/canine_bgnd.asp
Additional websites that may be
helpful are: www.doginfluenza.com, www.avma.org/public_health/influenza/canine_bgnd.asp,
www.sheltermedicine.com/portal/is_canine_influenza_updatea.shtml.
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