Canine influenza virus (CIV) has been an
emerging concern within the veterinary community when the highly contagious
type H3N2 was identified in the U.S. via the Chicago area in March 2015. It has quickly spread across more than 30
states.
CIV is highly contagious. Direct contact and droplets from sneezing or coughing can spread
CIV directly from dog to dog. Droplets can also contaminate surfaces, food, bowls
and other objects, increasing the potential for further infections.
CIV is difficult to diagnose and potentially
difficult to treat. Clinical signs—including coughing, sneezing, nasal and
ocular discharge, lethargy and lack of appetite, rapid breathing and
fever—sometimes don’t emerge until after the majority of virus shedding has
occurred.
In the
contiguous United States from 2006 to 2014, CIV H3N8 was reported in 36 states.
From March 2015 to July 2016, CIV H3N2 was found in 30 states.
All dogs can be at risk of contracting
CIV—regardless of breed, age, sex or health status. In some cases, CIV symptoms can be severe. Prevention remains the
best course of action.
Our hospital carries
both strains of the CIV H3N2 and H3N8 vaccines.
We are recommending both vaccine strains to all dogs who are in high
risk environments, such as boarding, grooming, dog parks, and training.
The vaccines are currently both a
series of 2 injections 3-4 weeks apart the first time a patient receives the
vaccine, so a total of 4 vaccines the first year.
article written by:
Scott Petereit, DVM
Companion Animal Hospital Mount Prospect & Wolf Merrick Animal Hospital
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