Influenza Canine/Swine/Human

H3N8 and Your Pet

Here is some information about H3N8 (Canine Influenza)

1. Canine Influenza (H3N8) is a novel canine virus first identified several years ago in groups of racing dogs in Florida.  Although the virus has spread to 30 states, it is still not common in most pets.

2. It appears to be more of a problem in a few isolated areas of the country and in shelters and kennels where dogs are housed closely together.  Although all dogs are at risk, most cases have been found associated with these situations.

3. The Canine Influenza Virus (CIV) is a different virus than the avian or human flu and it has not infected any humans.

4. The virus apparently mutated from an equine strain of influenza.  Influenza viruses can mutate.  While rare, we do seem to be seeing more of such mutations.   Five different mutations were needed to make this particular species jump from the horse to the dog.

5. Canine Influenza is deadly to about 5% of dogs infected with the disease.  In addition, when the flu is diagnosed in a shelter, they are likely to euthanize all dogs in order to stop the spread of the virus.

6. Consequently, the total mortality rate is about 8%, four times the mortality rate of the 1918 Spanish Flu pandemic in humans, a significant fact!

7. The primary symptoms in a dog are a cough and a high fever.  If you see any such symptoms you should visit your veterinarian.  It is important to know that there are many less severe diseases that show similar symptoms.

8. Currently the treatments we have are supportive care and antibiotics and an H3N8 vaccine, even if a dog gets this flu virus, it is most likely it will recover with good care from your veterinary hospital. 

9. A new vaccine for Canine Influenza Virus (CIV) has been given conditional status by the USDA.  The vaccine is now available to veterinarians while the USDA continues to review data provided by the manufacturer.

10. The vaccine is an inactivated virus and helps to reduce the incidence of the symptoms and aids in control of the disease.

11. The virus is not thought to be contagious to humans or other animals.  Most flu viruses are very species specific. 

12. There is no quick diagnostic test that can be run as of now.  However, veterinarians can send blood samples to a diagnostic lab if a diagnosis is needed. 

13. Veterinarians are best suited to care for your pet and prevent disease.  All precautions necessary are taken in animal hospitals to prevent spread of any infectious disease.  So don't be afraid to take your dog to the veterinarian. 

14. Prevention is best done by avoiding unnecessary contact with other dogs especially if your dog is old, young or has a compromised immune system.  Fortunately most dogs are not at high risk of becoming sick. 

15. Influenza viruses have taken various up and down cycles throughout history.  The CDC is monitoring this disease carefully. 

16. It is not necessary to keep your dogs inside.  Remember, it is very unlikely your dog will be exposed to this disease.  Normal precautions and the advice of your veterinarian will help you prevent any exposure to this disease.

H1N1 and Your Pet

Here is the very latest information about H1N1 (Swine Influenza)

1. The novel “swine flu” (H1N1) has been a serious additional health concern for people during this current flu season.

2. Until recently, experts believed that, with the exception of birds and pet pigs, our pets were not susceptible to this virus.  In fact, we don’t generally worry about our pets with any of the common seasonal flu strains.

3. Now, 2 cases of H1N1 in ferrets and a single cat that tested positive for the virus have shown that human transmission of the bug to our pets is possible.

4. So far, a ferret in Oregon tested positive as did a ferret in Nebraska who subsequently died.  The 13 year old cat in Iowa who tested positive has recovered without incident.  To date, no dogs have tested positive.

5. Currently, treatments for pets that contract H1N1 are supportive care and antibiotics.  Like most people, it appears that this flu causes a mild illness in pets.

6. Veterinarians and the CDC will continue to monitor H1N1 in order to make sure pets and people stay protected.

7. At this time, there is not an H1N1 vaccine that has been approved for pets.

8. Veterinarians and public health experts continue to stress the importance of hand washing and remaining at home if you are sick.

9. Even though pets bring us lots of comfort, it is best to avoid sleeping or snuggling with your pets (especially ferrets) if you are ill.

10. Veterinarians are aware of the possible transmission of H1N1 to cats and ferrets.  Your local animal hospital is best suited to care for your pet and prevent diseases, so don’t be afraid to take your pet to t he veterinarian if you are concerned.

11. At this time, this appears to be an isolated incident and the cat has recovered. 

12. The Animal Care Clinic will continue to monitor this potential concern and provide updates as needed.