Canine Influenza: A New Canine Respiratory Virus In 30 States By Dr. Lauren Keating (DVM)   Canine influenza is a newly emerging infectious disease caused by a “flu”virus known as H3N8. This highly contagious virus is able to cause respiratory illness in dogs. The virus was first reported in Florida in March 2003, and since then canine influenza has been reported in 30 states. This virus only infects dogs. Canine influenza is transmitted via aerosolized respiratory secretions, direct contact, and contaminated objects. The virus can remain alive on surfaces for up to 48 hours, and on clothing and hands for 12 hours. Because this is a newly emerging virus, all dogs, regardless of breed or age, are susceptible to infection and have no natural immunity to it. While 100% of dogs are susceptible to the influenza virus, about 80% of infected dogs will show signs of infection. The other 20% of infected dogs that do not exhibit clinical signs of disease can still shed the virus and can spread the infection. About 80% of dogs will show mild symptoms of canine influenza. These symptoms include a persistent cough, low-grade fever, nasal discharge, lack of energy and loss of appetite. Some dogs are more severely affected with canine influenza and have symptoms of pneumonia such as a high fever, and increased respiratory rate and effort. A small number of dogs have died from complications associated with the disease. Since canine influenza has similar symptoms as other canine respiratory infections, such as “kennel cough”, diagnosis is often difficult. Your veterinarian may collect nasal or blood samples to identify the virus, however, the tests may not confirm the canine influenza infection. If your dog has a history of being exposed to other dogs with canine influenza, it is reasonable to suspect that your dog has something more than ordinary “kennel cough”. Treatment for canine influenza, as for all viral diseases, is largely supportive. A nutritious diet, lots of fluids and tender loving care goes a long way toward helping your dog fight the infection. Your veterinarian may prescribe an antibiotic in those cases where a secondary bacterial infection is suspected. Recently, a new canine influenza vaccine was approved for use in the U.S. The Canine Influenza Vaccine has been proven to reduce the severity of the influenza virus and the length of time your dog is sick. The initial vaccination requires 2 doses, 2-4 weeks apart, followed by annual revaccination. Your veterinarian will help you decide whether to add this new vaccine to your dog’s vaccination schedule based upon your dog’s lifestyle and risk for exposure to this new virus. (Editor’s note: Dr. Keating owns and operates the Natural Bridge Hospital For Animals in Natural Bridge, Virginia.)

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