Canine Influenza – H3N8 Virus
Canine influenza (CI) is a contagious respiratory disease that can affect dogs of any breed. Because it’s a relatively new disease, most dogs have no immunity to the virus and it can spread very quickly. However, with proper care and prevention, your dogs can escape with few lingering effects. Canine influenza is derived from equine influenza, and it was first found in racing greyhounds in 2004. Since then it’s been detected in 30 states. Because it’s a respiratory disease, it spreads quickly through direct contact and airborne pathogens, especially in locations like kennels, clinics, dog parks and more. An estimated 80% of dogs who come in contact with the virus will develop the disease.
The most common symptom of canine influenza is a persistent cough that lasts up to 3 weeks. Secondary infections may also cause sneezing, nasal discharge and a low-grade fever. Severe cases include an increased respiratory rate and a high-grade fever, often leading to pneumonia. Since the symptoms are similar to other diseases such as kennel cough, canine influenza is difficult to diagnose without a blood test.
There is no direct treatment for canine influenza. Supportive care and good nutrition is necessary to boost the dog’s immune system so he can fight off the infection himself. Antibiotics can also be used to treat the secondary infections. Most dogs recover from the disease within a few weeks, but secondary pneumonia can be life-threatening, with a 5-8% fatality rate.
Since the canine influenza virus is easily killed by disinfectants, thorough cleaning habits can control canine influenza from spreading. Follow isolation protocols for any dogs with the virus, keeping them separate from healthy dogs. Always wash your hands and the supplies you use after caring for any infected dog.
There are vaccines available for canine influenza, which will only reduce the severity of the disease, not prevent it. These vaccines are made with a killed version of the virus, so there’s no chance of infection. Tests have shown it to be well-tolerated with no side effects. Since many dogs have routine contact with other dogs, most dogs are candidates for the vaccine.
As with any disease, sanitary living conditions and quality health care are necessary to prevent serious diseases. Avoid taking your pet anywhere they might have contact with unknown dogs. If your dog could potentially come in contact with canine influenza, consider vaccinating against the disease. Though canine influenza can be a serious disease, it can also be handled effectively to keep your dogs healthy and strong.
The materials, information and answers provided through this website are not intended to replace the medical advice or services of a qualified veterinarian or other pet health care professional. Consult your own veterinarian for answers to specific medical questions, including diagnosis, treatment, therapy or medical attention.
Thanks P.C. Tissue ~ Charmin's Chihuahuas
The most common symptom of canine influenza is a persistent cough that lasts up to 3 weeks. Secondary infections may also cause sneezing, nasal discharge and a low-grade fever. Severe cases include an increased respiratory rate and a high-grade fever, often leading to pneumonia. Since the symptoms are similar to other diseases such as kennel cough, canine influenza is difficult to diagnose without a blood test.
There is no direct treatment for canine influenza. Supportive care and good nutrition is necessary to boost the dog’s immune system so he can fight off the infection himself. Antibiotics can also be used to treat the secondary infections. Most dogs recover from the disease within a few weeks, but secondary pneumonia can be life-threatening, with a 5-8% fatality rate.
Since the canine influenza virus is easily killed by disinfectants, thorough cleaning habits can control canine influenza from spreading. Follow isolation protocols for any dogs with the virus, keeping them separate from healthy dogs. Always wash your hands and the supplies you use after caring for any infected dog.
There are vaccines available for canine influenza, which will only reduce the severity of the disease, not prevent it. These vaccines are made with a killed version of the virus, so there’s no chance of infection. Tests have shown it to be well-tolerated with no side effects. Since many dogs have routine contact with other dogs, most dogs are candidates for the vaccine.
As with any disease, sanitary living conditions and quality health care are necessary to prevent serious diseases. Avoid taking your pet anywhere they might have contact with unknown dogs. If your dog could potentially come in contact with canine influenza, consider vaccinating against the disease. Though canine influenza can be a serious disease, it can also be handled effectively to keep your dogs healthy and strong.
The materials, information and answers provided through this website are not intended to replace the medical advice or services of a qualified veterinarian or other pet health care professional. Consult your own veterinarian for answers to specific medical questions, including diagnosis, treatment, therapy or medical attention.
Thanks P.C. Tissue ~ Charmin's Chihuahuas