Canine Flu FAQ

What is Canine Influenza?
Canine influenza is an influenza in dogs caused by canine influenza viruses (CIVs).  The two main CIVs in circulation internationally are H3N8 and H3N2.  Dogs are occasionally infected with human influenza viruses.

When did the current US outbreak start?

Reports suggest that the outbreak began in the Chicago area in March 2015.

Where has the outbreak been reported?

Currently, the outbreak is mostly contained to the Chicago area.  However, cases have been identified in Wisconsin, Ohio and Indiana, according to investigators at the University of Wisconsin.  Because of limited surveillance and reporting, the outbreak might be wider than reported.

What strain of influenza caused this outbreak?

The previous (2004) outbreak which was caused by the H3N8 strain of influenza virus, has remained circulating in the US dog population causing sporadic disease since that time. However, the current outbreak has been identified as a H3N2 strain of the influenza A virus.  This strain is closely related to an Asian CIV strain that is circulating in China and South Korea.

Will the commercially available canine influenza vaccine protect against the strain of canine influenza involved in the current outbreak?

Probably not.  The current commercially available vaccines are not likely cross-protective against the H3N2 strain involved in the current outbreak.  The current vaccine for the H3N8 virus only limits the clinical signs of flu - it does not prevent infection or shedding of virus from infected dogs.  The vaccine should be given to dogs that are considered to be high risk (i.e traveling to areas of known outbreaks, and dogs who frequent high-density closed facilities).

How do infected dogs present?

Clinical signs range from subclinical infection, or mild pyrexia (fever) and malaise to severe life-threatening pneumonia; however most clinically affected dogs have signs that are typical of canine infectious respiratory diseases such as kennel cough.  Of approximately 1000 dogs recognized to be infected in the Chicago area, approximately 0.5% have died from the infection.  Clinically CIV infection is not distinguishable from other infectious respiratory diseases such as kennel cough (Bordetella bronchiseptica).

How is canine influenza diagnosed?

Testing for virus shedding should be done as early in the disease because shedding tends to be transient.  Laboratories involved in evaluating samples include the University of Wisconsin and Cornell University.

What precautions and recommendations should I take?

The best preventative measures are to limit or prevent exposure.  Travel to Illinois and Wisconsin with dogs should be discouraged.  If you live in these areas prevent your dog or dogs from congregating in dog parks, boarding facilities, grooming facilities and daycare facilities.  Elective veterinary visits should also be avoided in the Chicago area for the next few weeks.

What treatment is effective?

The mild form of the disease is treated like any other CIV infections, namely with minimally supportive care. Cough medication may be provided.  Antibiotic therapy will be restricted to high-risk patients.  With the severe form, treatment is supportive and includes intravenous fluids and broad spectrum antibiotics.

Is there any additional information?

Try this link:  http://www.veterinarypartner.com/Content.plx?P=A&A=3610