CANINE INFLUENZA
DISEASE DESCRIPTION:
Canine influenza is a highly contagious respiratory infection caused by an Influenza Type A virus. Genetic analysis shows that the canine influenza virus is closely related to equine influenza virus, suggesting that it evolved from equine influenza virus and jumped species.
The disease was first identified in racing greyhounds in Florida in 2004. However, it has been reported in virtually all states within the United States. Cases have been identified in animal shelters, pet stores, veterinary clinics, humane societies and in privately owned pets.
Virtually all dogs are susceptible, because immunity has not developed in the canine population at large. Additionally, influenza viruses have the potential for antigenic drift, allowing them to evade host defenses. Whether this will happen with canine influenza is difficult to determine.
Clinical signs appear two to five days after exposure. Infected dogs may shed virus for seven to 10 days from the initial day of clinical signs. Nearly 20 percent of infected dogs will not display clinical signs and become silent shedders and spreaders of the infection. Two clinical syndromes have been seen in dogs infected with the canine influenza virus--a mild form of the disease and a more severe form that is accompanied by pneumonia.
DIAGNOSIS and TREATMENT:
Serological testing (blood test) is currently the most reliable method of diagnosis. Call our office if you see signs such as: coughing, lethargy, anorexia, conjunctivitis, gagging, sneezing, or a nasal discharge. Recent exposure at a kennel, dog show, or grooming facility raises the risk of canine influenza. There is no specific treatment for influenza. Treatment is supportive (hospitalization in severe cases) and antibiotics are used only if a secondary bacterial infection is suspected.
PREVENTATIVE MEASURES:
Vaccination against influenza is recommended for dogs going to large, high risk boarding or grooming facilities. At this time we do not think the influenza vaccine is warranted for dogs going to small grooming facilities, puppy classes, or to dog parks. The vaccine is given in two parts, 3 weeks apart; the second part should be given two weeks before boarding. Planning ahead is essential.
Canine influenza should not be confused with "kennel cough", (also known as Bordetella or Respiratory Complex Disease) in dogs. Kennel cough is more common than canine influenza and vaccination against this respiratory disease is recommended for all dogs that are scheduled for boarding (small facilities too), grooming, puppy school, day care, or those attending dog shows.
