Canine Influenza Virus
04/08/2015
I have gotten a few questions from people concerned about the recent outbreak of Canine Influenza Virus (CIV - H3N8) in Chicago and wanted to get some information out.
The short of it is that similar to human flu, most dogs infected have recovered just fine after showing signs of coughing, runny nose, fever, and sometimes decreased energy and a decreased appetite. Very few dogs, mostly young puppies and elderly patients, have become seriously ill with pneumonia, and deaths have occurred. It is a viral disease, so the main treatment is supportive care, which includes rest, lots of fluids, and potentially hospitalization. Antibiotics may be needed for secondary bacterial pneumonia.
Since it was first recognized in kenneled greyhounds in 2004, this virus has caused periodic localized short-lived outbreaks mostly in animal kennel and shelter situations. Prevention of spread during these outbreaks by isolating infected animals and avoiding social exposures through daycares, dog parks and kennels has been the primary method of control. The virus, though highly contagious between dogs, is readily susceptible to disinfectants.
There is a vaccine available, though it is not routinely recommended at this point, and does not prevent infection, but may reduce the severity of signs. At this point it is readily obtainable, though many veterinary clinics have not kept this vaccine on hand. Certain lifestyle exposures may indicate a stronger need for the vaccination of some individuals.
Awareness of clinical signs, especially coughing, and possible exposures are our best approach for timely treatment and containment of the disease. There has been no indication that this virus is infectious to species other than dogs. So far, it has not become a concern in our area, but if you have any questions feel free to contact me and I will try to find the answers!
Here are some informational links for more details:
https://www.avma.org/public/PetCare/Pages/CanineInfluenza.aspx
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/canine/
The short of it is that similar to human flu, most dogs infected have recovered just fine after showing signs of coughing, runny nose, fever, and sometimes decreased energy and a decreased appetite. Very few dogs, mostly young puppies and elderly patients, have become seriously ill with pneumonia, and deaths have occurred. It is a viral disease, so the main treatment is supportive care, which includes rest, lots of fluids, and potentially hospitalization. Antibiotics may be needed for secondary bacterial pneumonia.
Since it was first recognized in kenneled greyhounds in 2004, this virus has caused periodic localized short-lived outbreaks mostly in animal kennel and shelter situations. Prevention of spread during these outbreaks by isolating infected animals and avoiding social exposures through daycares, dog parks and kennels has been the primary method of control. The virus, though highly contagious between dogs, is readily susceptible to disinfectants.
There is a vaccine available, though it is not routinely recommended at this point, and does not prevent infection, but may reduce the severity of signs. At this point it is readily obtainable, though many veterinary clinics have not kept this vaccine on hand. Certain lifestyle exposures may indicate a stronger need for the vaccination of some individuals.
Awareness of clinical signs, especially coughing, and possible exposures are our best approach for timely treatment and containment of the disease. There has been no indication that this virus is infectious to species other than dogs. So far, it has not become a concern in our area, but if you have any questions feel free to contact me and I will try to find the answers!
Here are some informational links for more details:
https://www.avma.org/public/PetCare/Pages/CanineInfluenza.aspx
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/canine/