All dog owners, shelters, and doggie daycare or boarding facilities need to be aware that Canine influenza, the potentially deadly and highly infectious H3N8 virus commonly known as dog flu, is spreading.
An article on Discovery News channel today notes that the virus has already claimed the life of at least one dog in Virginia and is now affecting dogs in at least four other states: Colorado, New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania.
Not only can dogs catch Canine flu from each other, but they can also catch it from humans who may have come into contact with infected animals. Because this virus is a mutation of an original equine virus, thereby already transmitting across species, the risk of dog-to-human infection is a definite possibility in the future.
The article notes “Symptoms in dogs can include fever, lethargy, loss of appetite and a respiratory infection that may last a few weeks. One to five percent of victims die from related hemorrhagic pneumonia.”
There is a vaccine, however it was only released three weeks ago. According to an article on the AVMA website treatment is, as with any viral disease, largely supportive. Secondary bacterial infections can be treated with broad-spectrum antibiotics.
So what should you do? Well, know that any situation that brings dogs into contact with each other increases the risk of transmission, however that risk can be mitigated with good infection control practices by shelters, kennels, and daycare facilities (and you!).
If you suspect your dog may have, or have been exposed to, canine influenza see your vet as soon as possible, follow good virus control procedures (essentially the same as for people-flu: wash your hands often and disinfect your clothes and surfaces regularly, to reduce cross-contamination) and keep them isolated from other dogs until you have the all-clear. If your dog is clearly exhibiting symptoms, be responsible and quarantine them immediately!
As with flu in people, the key is not to panic but to be vigilant and proactive about helping prevent the spread of the virus. Good nutrition and hydration can also help keep your dog’s immune system strong, so they are more resilient to health issues.
For additional information and updates, please visit these websites:
- American Veterinary Medical Association - www.avma.org
- University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine - www.vetmed.ufl.edu/pr
- Cornell University Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory - http://www.diaglab.vet.cornell.edu/issues/civ.asp
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention - www.cdc.gov/healthypets
- Association of Shelter Veterinarians - www.sheltervet.org
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