You can further be assured that while, yes, canine influenza is highly contagious, it’s rarely fatal. This can result in influenza viruses swapping genetic information and creating novel forms of the virus with pandemic potential. The vaccine has been demonstrated to reduce the incidence and severity of lung lesions, as well as the duration of coughing and viral shedding. This article reviews the benefits and downsides of the…. Cucumber Diet Review: Does It Work for Weight Loss? Whereas the initial greyhound cases in 2004 were linked to H3N8, the strain that caused the Chicago outbreak was determined to be H3N2, an avian influenza A variety that had already been reported circulating among dog populations in South Korea. Dogs with a weaker immune system (young puppies, geriatric dogs or dogs with complicated medical histories) can be more severely affected and present with symptoms of pneumonia (high-grade fever, increased respiratory rate and labored breathing). Current outbreaks are largely restricted to a handful of geographic regions in the United States. There are two identified strains of influenza virus that can affect our dogs and are classified as H3N8 and H3N2. Vaccines to protect dogs against both H3N8 and H3N2 canine flu are available in the United States. The typical dog vaccines include rabies, adenovirus, distemper, hepatitis, parvovirus, corona and the Para influenza. The dogs most at risk are very old or very young or have another medical condition, he said. “It’s not much worse than any previous time. In some cases, antibiotics are also used if there’s concern about possible bacterial infection. The AVMA wants to make sure that pet owners realize there’s nothing to panic about at this time. All dogs are susceptible to the virus at any time but dogs in restricted spaces (like shelters, boarding kennels, day care, etc.) The first recognized outbreak of the H3N8 strain of canine influenza occurred in January 2004 at a greyhound race track in Florida. “It’s not much worse than any previous time. Another outbreak of dog flu, H3N2, appeared in Chicago in 2015 after the virus jumped from birds to dogs. In 2015, following the Chicago epidemic, Merck Animal Health announced the availability of an H3N2 vaccine. Historically, live-attenuated influenza vaccines (LAIVs) have been show … Veterinary scientists discovered that the dogs had been infected with an influenza A virus of equine origin — this flu came from horses. Yes, just like people, dogs can get the flu. The spread of canine influenza to and from different species has raised the prospect of a potentially serious epidemic — should it become capable of infecting humans. Our canine friends, however, are not so lucky. And should your dog actually come down with a case of the flu, pay attention to their respiratory symptoms and have them diagnosed by a veterinarian. Call … Worse, some researchers have pointed to dogs as a potential “mixing vessel” for influenza. But, some species, the so-called “mixing vessels,” can play host to a wide variety of forms of influenza. The purpose of the vaccination is to control the spread of the disease by reducing the severity and duration of illness and symptoms, reduce the amount of virus that is shed by infected dogs and how long they shed the virus. Treatment can include fluids to maintain hydration, anti-inflammatory medications for fever reduction and discomfort and antibiotics for any suspected secondary bacterial infections are used to support the dog’s health until the virus is fought off by the body’s immune system. Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Dogs that are at higher risk of exposure should be vaccinated. However, this incident was the first time that the flu was isolated in canines. Again, a strain of influenza, this time in birds, had made the jump to dogs. In 2018, the dog flu appears to have reared its head again: Over 100 cases have been reported in Michigan. “I think with most outbreaks, they do tend to start in urban and suburban environments because there’s a lot more contact,” she said. The flu vaccine is the best way to protect yourself from the influenza virus. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. But, to be clear: There’s never been a case of a human becoming infected with canine influenza and there is no evidence that it can spread to humans. If your dog needs to be taken to boarding, grooming, or daycare facility, be an advocate for him. There is an effective vaccine against both forms of dog flu. If you have decided to protect your dog using the canine influenza vaccine, be sure to speak to your veterinarian so they can order it for you if they don’t normally stock it. In general, only those that have had reported cases of flu in their facility or city feel compelled to require it. The Isagenix diet is a popular meal replacement weight loss program. In 2015, Chicago became the site of the worst outbreak of canine influenza seen since its discovery a decade earlier. Dog flu, or canine influenza virus, is an infectious respiratory disease caused by an influenza A virus, similar to the viral strains that cause influenza in people. Canine influenza is transmitted from dog to dog by respiratory secretions (i.e. Nevertheless, it’s a real disease and owners should be informed about it. She graduated with honors, from Harcum College as a member of Phi Theta Kappa, with an Associate’s of Science degree in Veterinary Technology. For example, during 2018-2019 flu vaccination prevented an estimated 58,000 flu-related hospitalizations. Like human flu, some dogs die from flu. It’s estimated to have a mortality rate of less than 10 percent, and only in young puppies, geriatric dogs, or those with suppressed immune systems. The first canine influenza vaccine was introduced in June of 2009 to aid in controlling infection with canine influenza virus H3N8, since that was the only strain found in the United States at that time. You should get one every year, unless you have a medical reason not to. Since the virus, known as H3N8, was first identified in 2004, thousands of dogs in 38 states have become sick with the flu, and veterinarians say that number continues to climb. This article reviews the It Works Cleanse…, The cucumber diet is a short-term diet that's touted for its quick weight loss effects. But if they are going to go to the city or the groomer or if it’s required, I think it’s a good idea until we know what’s going on with this virus,” said Greenwald. Thimerosal is a preservative, and it keeps vaccines from becoming contaminated. But veterinarians are not recommending the shot for every dog. Here's why you may be getting a better night’s sleep if you snuggle up with a pup. Initial studies have shown that dogs do not maintain long duration of immunity so it is important to revaccinate them annually. The Dog Flu Vaccine (or Canine Influenza) is indeed in the top 8 vaccines (lower half “non-core”) recommended by a trusted task force that has the purpose of sharing vaccination recommendations in both the United States and in Canada. This…, The snake diet promotes prolonged fasts to induce rapid weight loss, but you may wonder whether it's safe. There are tests that can be preformed to confirm the diagnosis. If you have more questions about dog flu, are uncertain if your dog is at risk or wonder if the vaccination is needed/appropriate for your four-legged friend, please have a conversation with your veterinarian. They will have a cough that can present as a moist, soft cough or a dry hacking cough that can persist for anywhere from 10 to 21 days. Just like human flu vaccines, the H3N2 CIV vaccine may not completely prevent infection but will make it less likely. Dogs were often considered “refractory,” or resistant, to influenza, but no longer. But, it soon became obvious that this particular group of dogs wasn’t suffering from a simple case of kennel cough. Nobivac ® Canine Flu Bivalent aids in the control of disease associated with both strains of Dog Flu. Initial Vaccination (Dogs ≤16 Wk of Age) Two initial doses, 2 to 4 wk apart, are required. Thimerosal. How it spreads istockphoto Health officials say dog flu spreads the same way human flu does: through virus droplets in the air from a sneeze or cough, or by … There is no evidence to confirm, but it is suspected that in 2015 the H3N2 strain was introduced to the United States by dogs that were rescued and imported from Asia. “This seems to be more of a problem in the spring, when dogs are going to dog parks and people are traveling so dogs are going to kennel situations. The first canine influenza vaccine was introduced in June of 2009 to aid in controlling infection with canine influenza virus H3N8, since that was the only strain found in the United States at that time. Canine Influenza is a highly contagious respiratory disease that affects Dogs. Flu vaccine is an inactivated vaccine, meaning that it contains killed influenza virus, or a recombinant vaccine, meaning that it was made without using virus particles at all. A vaccine is conditionally approved for H3N2 canine flu, seen in 25 states. Canine influenza may be endemic in some regional dog populations of the United States. “It’s so contagious that the concern about it is that just like the swine flu and avian flu, the influenza virus can very quickly mutate. All rights reserved. Make sure these facilities follow a strict cleaning regiment and schedule using proper disinfecting products and that the personnel are appropriately trained to understand cross contamination and how to prevent it. “Dogs with basic supportive care recover from it just like a lot of people might recover from the common cold or a mild version of the flu that people might come down with during the winter time,” said de Jong. Although the dog flu has been reported in 40 states (including Washington DC), the vaccine has not become a requirement in all high-risk facilities. There have been reported cases in a total of 11 states in the U.S., but only among dogs in race track facilities. Here's what to…. Here’s why. This product is conditionally licensed. In 2015, following the Chicago epidemic, Merck Animal Health announced the … It Works Cleanse Review: Does It Help with Weight Loss? In a majority of cases, dogs with the flu usually recover completely in two to three weeks. Caring for a dog with the flu is similar to caring for a human who’s been infected: Plenty of liquids and rest are in order. The first dose may be administered to dogs 6 to 8 wk of age or older (see package insert for specific information). We will remain split down the middle on that debate, but one thing we all can agree on is that there is nothing worse than flu season. “There’s a lot of hype and hysteria,” said John de Jong, DVM, president of the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). The deadly H1N1 “swine flu” influenza strain that caused a global pandemic 2009 resulting in the deaths of hundreds of thousands of people — a combination of avian, swine, and human flu virus — is believed to have resulted from the “mixing vessel” phenomenon. The company quickly shut down multiple Chicago locations for disinfection, but not before the city experienced the worst outbreak in 35 years. There is in fact a canine influenza vaccine for either strain. The Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine has even created a canine influenza surveillance map to track the presence of the disease. Living in the Northeast, there are those of us that dread the snow, ice and frigid temperatures while others can’t wait to frolic in the fresh powder or bundle up for some sledding. The recombinant flu vaccine manufacturing process, like cell-based vaccines, is faster to manufacture too. New dog flu strain raises vaccine questions A new strain of canine influenza that started last spring is spreading fast and proving fatal for some dogs. This article tells you everything you need…, The It Works Cleanse is a two-day program claimed to rid your body of toxins and help you lose weight. This article takes a close look at whether the Isagenix diet really works. From there the H3N2 virus spread through the Midwest and continued to stretch throughout the country. Why the Loss of Your Pet Could Be the Hardest to Bear, Yes, Your Dog Knows When You’re Stressed — and They Feel It Too, Sorry, Spouses and Cats, Women Sleep More Soundly Next to Dogs, FDA Gives Emergency Approval for Pfizer COVID-19 Vaccine: What to Know. Because the cough can persist for up to 21 days, a 21-day quarantine is recommended for infected dogs. Isagenix Diet Review: Does It Work for Weight Loss? Because of the lack of previous exposure to this virus, dogs have no natural immunity to it. Treatment options for dog flu are robust. That outbreak, the first known of its kind, eventually spread to racing greyhounds in nine different states between 2004 and 2006. Greenwald noted that people traveling with their dogs throughout the summer can also spread dog flu to areas it otherwise wouldn’t spread. To ensure that your dog is receiving the vaccine’s full protection, it should be given at least two weeks prior to possible exposure. In October, a vaccine was introduced to aid in the control of infection with both strains of the virus. In some cases, it doesn't completely stop infection but it will make the symptoms less severe in … What they found wasn’t some new disease. For some people, the death of a pet can be more difficult than the loss of a relative. The disease is highly contagious so make sure to isolate the animal from other dogs and pets. Flu vaccine prevents tens of thousands of hospitalizations each year. Healthy dogs seven weeks of age or older can be given the vaccine, which requires two vaccinations given two-to-four weeks apart. Therefore, the disease is rapidly transmitted between individual dogs. Vaccines that seem to be most likely to cause reactions include the killed rabies, canine corona, FeLV, and Leptospira vaccine. The virus can live on clothing for 24 hours and on human hands for 12 hours, so people can also carry the virus from infected dogs to uninfected dogs. The vaccine is regarded as a “lifestyle vaccine,” meaning that whether your dog needs it or not will depend on a few factors. When … Even if not required, the vaccine may be a good idea, simply because boarding facilities with many dogs in close proximity can be a place where influenza can spread. Because of this, not all veterinarians are keeping the vaccine in stock. Dog flu is transferred via airborne respiratory fluids when an infected dog coughs, barks or sneezes. There is a vaccine for the H3N8 strain, one for the H3N2 strain, and a vaccine that covers both strains in one shot. The type A, subtype H3N8 virus has been chemically inactivated and combined with an adjuvant designed to enhance the immune response. Health care providers inject the vaccine into muscles or skin, stimulating the immune system to produce an immune response (antibodies) to the influenza virus. Although not very common, the clinical signs can range from mild symptoms to life threatening emergencies. There is in fact a canine influenza vaccine for either strain. They all showed signs of some kind of respiratory distress: coughing, fever, and runny noses. This … There’s also a bivalent option available, meaning that it protects against both strains. Yes. In January 2004, a pack of greyhounds at a Florida racetrack fell mysteriously ill. In the previous year, 2017-18, the vaccine worked just 15 per cent of the time and flu was blamed for more than 26,000 deaths. Nearby Wisconsin has also reported recent cases, as have a handful of states on the East Coast, including Massachusetts, Virginia, and Connecticut. This U.S. introduction occurred in Chicago when several dogs at a boarding facility became ill. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention consider canine influenza a “low threat to humans.”. Rabies. Healthcare company AvKARE issued a recall…. If you board your dog, go to dog parks, or socialize your dog with others, then your dog needs the Canine Influenza Vaccine. no evidence that it can spread to humans. That strain is currently spreading among dogs in New York City. The virus can live on surfaces for up to 48 hours, so dogs can pick up the virus from kennel surfaces, water and food bowls, collars, leashes, etc. The symptoms could easily be mistaken for “kennel cough,” a disease caused by the bacteria Bordetella bronchiseptica. According to current estimates from The Humane Society, there are roughly 90 million pet dogs living in the United States today, or about 1.5 dogs per household. Because these symptoms are the same as any number of respiratory infections, canine influenza cannot be diagnosed on symptoms alone. It’s garnered headlines from nationally syndicated news media, saying that a mysterious, highly contagious disease is spreading, feeding into the fear of a new doggie epidemic. Now that both strains have been identified in the U.S. and the occurrence of one strain or the other is unpredictable, it was recommended that high-risk dogs should be protected against both strains of the virus. © 2005-2020 Healthline Media a Red Ventures Company. It doesn’t mean dog owners need to start vaccinating their pets for canine influenza. NONCORE Vaccines. The symptoms of canine influenza include coughing, fever, runny nose, lethargy, and lack of appetite, although individual symptoms may vary from dog to dog. We as parents do need to understand, however, that vaccinated dogs CAN still become infected and develop the illness. Here’s everything you need to know about the highly contagious dog flu and how to protect your pet this season. Rabies is a virus that causes neurologic disease that is fatal for domestic pets, wildlife and … It was the flu. Canine influenza has since spread throughout the United States, sporadically flaring up from year to year. Canine Influenza (or dog flu) is a highly contagious disease that is a threat all year round. The United States has now become the third Western country to approve Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccine, which could become a turning point in the ongoing…, The 5 Bite Diet is a fad diet that's marketed as an alternative to weight loss surgery, but you may wonder whether it's safe and effective. A new strain appeared. At this point they haven’t seen any evidence of mutation, but how contagious can this be and how quickly can it spread?” said Greenwald. For now, however, the idea of canine influenza spreading to humans is merely speculation. Dogs infected with the virus will show symptoms two to three days after being exposed. Canine influenza is caused by varieties of influenzavirus A, such as equine influenza virus H3N8, which was discovered to cause disease in canines in 2004. Currently, only inactivated influenza vaccines (IIVs) are available for the prevention of CIVs. The outbreak also marked a new development for canine influenza. At that time there were over 1,000 cases of infectious respiratory disease reported. One year later in 2016, H3N2 was discovered to have made another species jump and infected cats in an animal shelter in Indiana. New research shows our furry friends feel our stress, giving us a window into our own health — and possibly impacting theirs as well. infected cats in an animal shelter in Indiana. Fever Just as humans can sometimes suffer from fever relating to vaccinations, dogs can too. Continued. coughing, sneezing, and barking). Some kennels are now requiring that dogs receive the vaccine before being housed there. January 2004 at a greyhound race track in Florida. The H3N2 virus was first identified in Asia in 2006. However, that doesn’t mean that the idea isn’t worrisome. There are bivalent vaccines that help guard your dog against both strains of dog flu — H3N2 and H3N8. What can make this flu serious is if the dog develops a bacterial pneumonia, Dubovi said.Some breeds, such as bulldogs and German shepherds, may be more susceptible to serious lung infection, he said. It's new to the Canine population, so your dog could be at risk! The notion of man’s best friend, an animal held near and dear to so many people’s hearts, carrying a highly contagious disease is understandably troubling. Because it’s so very contagious,” Pamela Greenwald, DVM, a Michigan veterinarian and state representative for the Humane Society Veterinary Medical Association, told Healthline. It may be just a low grade fever that will last a day or so after the vaccination… Canine influenza is influenza occurring in canine animals. We see outbreaks like this flare up from time to time.”. Disadvantages: These vaccines have a slightly shorter shelf life than most current flu vaccines, with expiration dates 9 months after the production date, … Over 100 cases have been reported in Michigan, a mysterious, highly contagious disease is spreading. The flu isn’t easily spread between all species — human to bird and vice versa, for example. “If dogs aren’t leaving their home, they aren’t exposed to other dogs, I don’t know if it is necessarily required. Flu vaccination can reduce the risk of flu-associated hospitalization for children, working age adults, and older adults. Canine Influenza Virus-H3N8 (killed) Administer by the SQ route. Your veterinarian can provide additional information about these vaccines and whether you should consider vaccinating your dog. Recommended for use in healthy dogs at 6 weeks of age or older as an aid in the control of disease associated with canine influenza virus infection. It protects against flu and is best given to healthy dogs ahead of exposure to the flu virus. The racetrack where the dogs fell ill also happened to host horse racing. In total, 8 of the 24 infected dogs eventually died while researchers zeroed in on the culprit. This particular strain of influenza, H3N8, had apparently made the jump to a new host species. Initial Vaccination (Dogs … They will help you decide the best way to protect your best friend! Treatment options for dog flu are robust. Don't wait, vaccinate. Combined with the effects of a … In this pet care video we learn about dog flu (Canine Influenza). Canine Influenza Vaccination: Does Your Dog Need It? Antidepressant and ED Medication Recalled After Factory Mix-Up: What to Know. are at a much higher risk. Dogs are social creatures, and all social dogs - like those who travel, live in dog-friendly buildings or visit dog parks, doggie daycare, boarding kennels and grooming facilities - are at risk for contracting the … The AVMA wants to make sure that pet owners realize there’s nothing to panic about at this time. The New Canine Influenza, Greyhound Disease, Race Flu, Equine Influenza, Avian Flu The New Canine Flu, which has killed so many greyhounds, is now in the domestic dog population. It is a disease with a high morbid Charlie has been in the veterinary field for the last 18+ years, 14 of which she has spent as a board certified technician. Canine influenza is a contagious respiratory disease in dogs caused by two subtypes (H3N2 and H3N8) of canine influenza virus (CIV). The flu’s ability to do so isn’t uncommon. We see outbreaks like this flare up from time to time.”, (AVMA). This is given by subcutaneous injection. 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