Canine Influenza
Purpose Statement: This document has been written with the dog
owner in mind, to help answer questions he/she may have about Canine
Influenza Virus. The data has been compiled from many sources such as
the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the University of
Florida, Cornell University, and the American Veterinary Medical
Association. Due to the fact that this is a fairly new disease, the
information gathered and the facts known tend to change rapidly. This
fact sheet is current as of December 1st, 2005. The websites of the
aforementioned sources are the best resources for the most current
information. Readers are encouraged to check those websites, listed at
the end of this article, to determine whether there have been any new
updates/changes in the following information.
What is Canine Influenza Virus (CIV)?
Canine Influenza Virus (CIV), also known as Canine Flu, is a
respiratory infection in dogs that is caused by a virus. It is very
contagious to other dogs. It may present in one of two ways. The first,
and most common, is a mild form. The second is less common and is
accompanied by signs of pneumonia. It is considered the severe form. See
"What are the symptoms?" to learn more about each form.
What causes it?
The Canine Influenza Virus can be transmitted from dog to dog through
particles in the air (coughing, close proximity), by contaminated
objects (food bowls, toys) or by humans moving between infected and
healthy dogs. This is a relatively new disease, so virtually all dogs
are susceptible to infection. There is no natural immunity and, as of
now, there is no vaccination against it. Therefore, if a dog is exposed
to the virus it will most likely become infected with it, and 80% of the
dog population will show clinical signs. The other 20% will not show any
signs of illness, but will still be capable of spreading the virus to
other dogs. Fortunately, most dogs that are infected will have the mild
form and will recover fully.
Where did it originate?
The first laboratory determined case of CIV occurred in January 2004
at a greyhound racing track in Florida. Upon analysis of the virus, it
was determined that it is very similar to Equine Influenza Virus, and it
is suspected that the virus jumped the species barrier from horses to
dogs. This occurs when there is a genetic change in the virus. A change
in the genes in the virus affects the way the virus interacts with the
host, allowing a new species to be able to be infected with the virus.
What are the symptoms?
As mentioned before, there are two ways the virus may present:
What do I do if my dog shows these symptoms? Can I treat it at home?
If your dog is coughing or showing signs of respiratory problems, it
is important that you make an appointment with your veterinarian. It is
never a good idea to use any human drugs to help your dog unless
directed by and under the direct supervision of a veterinarian. Human
drugs are not indicated for dogs and may cause more problems or even
death. Your veterinarian can determine what is causing your dog's
coughing and can prescribe safe medications to help your dog. If your
dog is coughing or even just getting over a cough, you should keep your
dog home for a couple of weeks. This serves two purposes. First, it
gives the dog a chance to recover fully. Secondly, in case it is
contagious, it protects other healthy dogs and prevents spread of
disease.
How is it diagnosed?
Your veterinarian will send blood samples to be tested for Canine
Influenza Virus. Blood will be collected when you first take your dog
into the clinic and will likely be collected again 2-3 weeks later. Both
blood samples will be shipped to Cornell University's diagnostic
laboratory for testing. The turnaround for results is approximately two
weeks.
What are the treatment options?
As with all viruses, there aren't really any drugs that kill them.
They simply have to run their course. So, most treatment options focus
on supportive care. Making sure that the dog is hydrated and on a good
diet will help boost the dog's immune system so it can fight the virus
on its own. Dogs showing nasal discharge or pneumonia signs are often
given an antibiotic to get rid of those secondary bacterial infections.
Is it fatal?
The mortality rate of Canine Influenza Virus is thankfully fairly
low. The current rate is estimated to be around 5-8%. It is important to
note that this may change as more is learned about CIV. The lower the
number of cases there are to study, the less reliable the percentages.
Therefore, as more cases are reported and studied, the mortality rate
could change.
Are there preventative measures I can take?
As of now, there is no vaccination available for Canine Influenza
Virus, although work is being done to develop one. The experts working
on this disease suggest that you should not panic, and there is no need
to change your everyday routine with your dog, unless he/she is
exhibiting signs of respiratory disease. Routine disinfectants, such as
quaternary ammoniums and 10% bleach should kill the virus on inanimate
objects. You can still play in dog parks, board in kennels, and take
your dog to the groomer. Remain alert to any outbreaks in your area and
use reputable kennels and groomers. Reputable kennels and groomers
should already be taking all precautions to prevent spread of infectious
diseases. Knowledge and common sense are your best defenses against CIV.
What states have confirmed CIV infected dogs?
As of December 7, 2005, positive samples have been found outside of
greyhound racing tracks in Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut,
Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, North
Carolina, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Washington, Washington
D.C., and Wisconsin. This information was obtained from the website of
Cornell University's Animal Health Diagnostic Center.
Can I catch it from my dog?
As of now, there have been no cases of CIV being transmitted to
humans or any other species. It is worthwhile to note that Equine
Influenza Virus has been around for about 40 years and there has never
been a case of it in humans. It is reasonable to assume that the Canine
Influenza Virus will not be any more dangerous to humans than the Equine
Influenza Virus.
Sources:
1.
American Veterinary Medical Association
2.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Media Briefing
3.
Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine
4.
Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine - stats
5.
University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine
Information compiled by Amber Boring
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