Canine Influenza
Recently, the staff and doctors at Twin Maples Veterinary Hospital have been asked questions about canine influenza, a new viral respiratory infection resembling "kennel cough". Internet chat groups and more recently major media outlets have been reporting information about this new disease, some factual and some rather exaggerated.
The most reliable information about this disease has been reported from the Animal Health Diagnostic Center of Cornell University, and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. AHDC Report. CDC Media Briefing.
To summarize the reports, Canine influenza is a new viral organism causing cough and occasionally pneumonia in dogs. The virus has been show to have arisen from an influenza virus of horses that has become infectious for dogs. The disease was first recognized in racing greyhound kennels in Florida, but has also been isolated in New York state and possibly Massachusetts. The virus may also be in other states and work is now being performed to determine if it is in other areas. There have been no confirmed reports of this disease in the southern Ohio area at this time. The virus infects only dogs; people are immune.
Symptoms in most dogs will be similar to other viruses and bacteria causing what is common referred to as "kennel cough". Dogs infected with canine influenza can present with a harsh cough and may also present with a thick nasal discharge and fever. The great majority of dogs, 80% or better will have mild to moderate infections. Because it is a new virus to dogs it is highly contagious, and pet owners are advised to avoid bringing their dogs into contact with symptomatic individuals. Opportunity for exposure is highest in environments in which dogs are exposed to one another such as shelters, dog shows, and kennels.
As with human influenza outbreaks, the very young, very old, and weak can be affected with more severe symptoms including pneumonia. Mortality appears to be low, current estimates are from 1-10 percent.
Pets with symptoms should be isolated from other dogs, and should be examined and treated by your veterinarian. Most dogs will respond well to treatment. The disease can be definitively diagnosed by blood test. There is currently no vaccination available for canine influenza, though preliminary work is being done to develop one.
Owners should be reassured that most dogs are safe because they are not exposed to other, infected dogs. If you are concerned that your pet may be infected, please call us for an appointment at 937-866-5949.
