What is Canine Influenza?
Dog flu is a contagious respiratory disease in dogs caused by a specific Type A Influenza virus referred to as a “canine influenza virus”. This is a dease of dogs, and can not effect humans.
What is a canine influenza virus?
The “canine influenza virus” is an influenza A H3N8 influenza virus (not a human influenza virus) that was originally an equine (horse) influenza virus. This virus has spread to dogs and can now spread between dogs.
How long has canine influenza been around?
The H3N8 equine influenza virus has been known to exist in horses for more than 40 years. In 2004, however, cases of an unkown repiratory illness in dogs (initially greyhounds) were reported. An investigation showed that this respiratory illness was caused by the equine influenza A H3N8 virus. Scientists believe that this virus jumped species (from horses to dogs) and has now adapted to cause illness in dogs and spread efficiently among dogs. This is now considered a new dog-specific lineage of H3N8. In September of 2005, this virus was identified by experts as “a newly emerging pathogen in the dog population” in the United States.
What are the symptoms of this infection in dogs?
The symptoms of this illness in dogs are cough, runny nose and fever, however, a small portion of dogs can develop severe disease and even pneumonia.
How does dog flu spread?
Canine influenza virus can be spread by direct contact with respiratory secretions from infected dogs, by contact with contaminated objects, and by people moving between infected and uninfected dogs. Therefore, dog owners whose dogs are coughing or showing other signs of respiratory disease should not participate in activities or bring their dogs to facilities where other dogs can be exposed to the virus. Clothing, equipment, surfaces, and hands should be cleaned and disinfected after exposure to dogs showing signs of respiratory disease.
Is there a test for canine influenza?
Testing to confirm canine influenza virus infection is available at veterinary diagnostic centers. The tests can be performed using upper respiratory secretions collected at the time of disease onset or using two blood samples; the first collected while the animal is sick, and the second 2 to 3 weeks later.
How is canine influenza treated?
Treatment largely consists of supportive care. This helps the dog mount an immune response. In the milder form of the disease, this care may include medication to make your dog more comfortable and fluids to ensure that your dog remains well-hydrated. Broad spectrum antibiotics may be prescribed by your veterinarian if a secondary bacterial infection is suspected.
Is there a vaccine for canine fluenza?
Yes, an approved vaccine is available. The first booster is $32.00, and your pet needs to return to Bayside Animal Hospital 3-4 weeks after the first booster to receive a second booster that is $32.00 as well. If your pet has had a physical exam by the doctors at Bayside within one year, an office visit is not required to get an influenza booster.
What is the rist to humans from this virus?
There is no evidence that transmission of canine influenza virus from dogs to people and there has been no reported case of human infection.
My dog has a cough, what should I do?
Schedule an appointment with your veterinarian immediately so that they can evaluate your dog and recommend an appropriate course of treatment.
