DOG FLU

 
Posted October 21, 2009

I checked with the vet about the dog flu. I also checked on Snopes and it is indeed a real worry.

The first series of vaccines arrived at the vets last week. There has been one dog that was a confirmed death of dog flu already in Nevada this year. It can happen to ANY dog, any breed, any age. It is more prevalent among dogs that are confined to a small area together in groups. It has become a real problem in the racing Greyhound stables in Florida.

The symptoms are much like Kennel Cough. Some dogs will get a light cough, some heavier. The dogs run anywhere from a slight fever to a very high fever. My vet said the hardest thing is going to be how to tell if the dog has "dog flu" or something else. They are not sure
right now how to test the dog for the infection.

These are a few sites he gave me for more information:
     http://www.doginfluenza.com/
     http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/dog-care/dog-care-canine-flu-question-and-answer.html

I hope no one's dog gets the flu this year. Take care of your pups and if your dogs do get the flu, let us know what the symptoms are and how you and your vet are treating the infection.
 
This is a little more (then a LOT more) information from Shelly Hollen of Shalako Australian Shepherds:
The canine Influenza that first appeared in 2004 and has no vaccination. The canine influenza virus, which has the subtype
H3N8, appears to have jumped directly from horses to dogs but has diverged to the point of now being considered a separate virus.

A second subtype, called the H3N2, is thought to have developed after feeding dogs chicken infected with the notorious Asian "bird flu".

The H3N8 seems to have been distributed from coast to coast since it's first appearance and is now showing up in the UK as well. The H3N2 is still isolated in Korea, but is expected to migrate as well.

These diseases are spread through respiratory secretions and dogs can acquire a mild form or a serious form, depending on the overall health of their immune system when infected. Very young and very old dogs are more susceptible, just like with people. Secondary bacterial infections can prolong recovery and result in complications like pneumonia.

_________________
Shelly Hollen
Shalako Australian Shepherds
ASCA Senior Breeder Judge
 

Much more information from Shelly:

Influenza updates from the AVMA

Backgrounder: Canine influenza
September 7, 2009

Printer-friendly version (PDF)

Causative agent
Canine influenza virus (CIV) is caused by a highly contagious infection caused by a novel influenza A subtype H3N8 virus first discovered in 2004. The canine influenza virus has been classified as H3N8, based on the amino acid composition of the hemaglutinin (H) and neuraminidase (N) glycoproteins in the lipid outer layer of the capsid. These glycoproteins facilitate entry into and release from host cells, and are important targets for antibodies against the virus (generated as a result of infection or response to vaccination). The viruses are 80-120 nanometers (nm) in diameter, and consist of a core of eight separate pieces of single-strand ribonucleic acid (RNA) surrounded by a spiked arrangement of glycoproteins.

CIV represents a very rare event in adaptive evolution; the entire genome of the H3N8 equine influenza virus was transferred to dogs, and the virus adapted to the canine species to emerge as a new canine-specific virus.1 Although the virus spreads readily from dog to dog, there is no evidence to support that it can be transmitted from dogs to humans.

Natural distribution
The first recognized outbreak of canine influenza is believed to have occurred in racing greyhounds in January 2004 at a track in Florida. From June to August of 2004, outbreaks of respiratory disease were reported at 14 tracks in 6 states (Florida, Texas, Alabama, Arkansas, West Virginia, and Kansas). Between January and May of 2005, outbreaks occurred at 20 tracks in 11 states (Florida, Texas, Arkansas, Arizona, West Virginia, Kansas, Iowa, Colorado, Rhode Island, and Massachusetts). Since then, canine influenza has been documented in 30 states and Washington, DC. At this time, CIV is endemic (very prevalent) in areas of in Colorado, Florida, New York, and Pennsylvania.2 As of October 2, 2008, 1,079 cases of canine influenza were confirmed by the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine Animal Health Diagnostic Center.3

Transmission
Canine influenza is spread via aerosolized respiratory secretions and contaminated objects (kennel surfaces, food and water bowls, collars and leashes) and people moving between infected and uninfected dogs. The virus can remain viable (alive and able to infect) on surfaces for up to 48 hours, on clothing for 24 hours, and on hands for 12 hours.4

The incubation period is usually two to four days from exposure to onset of clinical signs. The highest amounts of viral shedding occur during this time; therefore, dogs are most contagious during this 2-4 day incubation period when they are not exhibiting signs of illness. 4 Virus shedding decreases dramatically during the first 4 days of illness but may continue up to 7 days in most dogs and up to 10 days in some dogs.4

Because this is a newly emerging pathogen, all dogs, regardless of breed or age, are susceptible to infection and have no naturally acquired or vaccine-induced immunity when first exposed to the virus. If the virus enters a kennel or other closed group, a high percentage of the dogs may become infected, and most of these dogs will be symptomatic.2 Approximately 20-25% of infected dogs are expected to remain asymptomatic, but can still shed the virus and spread the virus. Although most dogs have a milder form of canine influenza and recover without complications, some may develop severe pneumonia.1

Pathology and Clinical Signs
The canine influenza virus infects and replicates inside the cells of the respiratory tract, from the nasal lining to the terminal airways. The inflammatory response results in rhinitis, tracheitits, bronchitis and bronchiolitis. The pathologic process also involves the death of the epithelial cells lining the respiratory tract, resulting in exposure of the underlying basement membrane. This, in turn, predisposes the respiratory tract to secondary bacterial infections that contribute to the nasal discharge and coughing.4

Virtually all dogs that are exposed become infected with the virus, but approximately 80% develop clinical signs of disease. The approximately 20% of infected dogs that do not exhibit clinical signs of disease can still shed the virus and can spread the infection.5

Like other mammalian influenza viruses, CIV causes an acute respiratory infection in dogs. However, unlike human influenza, CIV is not a "seasonal" flu – infections can occur year-round.2,4 Canine influenza virus causes clinical disease that mimics kennel cough. As a result, infection with the virus is frequently mistaken for infections caused by Bordetella bronchiseptica/parainfluenza virus complex. Clinical disease may be mild or severe.6

The majority of infected dogs exhibit the mild form of CI. In the mild form, the most common clinical sign is a cough that persists for 10 to 21 days despite treatment with antibiotics and cough suppressants. Most dogs have a soft, moist cough, whereas others have a dry cough that is similar to that induced by Bordetella bronchiseptica/parainfluenza virus infection. Many dogs have a purulent nasal discharge and a low-grade fever. The nasal discharge is usually caused by secondary bacterial infections, including Pasteurella multocida and mycoplasma species.7

Some dogs are more severely affected with clinical signs of pneumonia, such as a high-grade fever (104°F to 106°F) and increased respiratory rate and effort. Thoracic radiography (chest x-rays) may reveal consolidation of lung lobes.1

Diagnosis
Canine influenza cannot be diagnosed solely by clinical signs because the clinical signs (coughing, sneezing and nasal discharge) are similar to those associated with all of the other respiratory pathogens and cannot be differentiated from them.4.

Antibodies to canine influenza virus may be detected in the blood as early as seven days after onset of clinical signs, and the virus may be identified in nasal or pharyngeal swabs during the first 4 days of illness. The most reliable and sensitive method for confirmation of infection is serologic testing. Paired acute serum samples (taken within the first 7 days of illness) and convalescent serum samples (taken 10-14 days later) are necessary for diagnosis of recent infection. If an acute sample is not available, a convalescent sample will indicate whether a dog has been exposed to the virus at some point in the past. A diagnosis of CI is made based on a four-fold increase in antibody titer from the acute to the convalescent sample.7

If a dog has been ill for less than 4 days, nasal and pharyngeal swab submission for Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) testing can be performed. If the PCR indicates a positive result, the dog is most likely infected. Negative PCR results may be falsely negative if the swabs are not collected during the time of peak virus shedding. After 4 days of illness, PCR results are less likely to be reliable.4,8 Serology should be performed to confirm infection, especially if the PCR results are negative and the case is highly suspicious for CI infection.4

Other diagnostic options applicable to dogs that have died from pneumonia are viral culture and PCR analysis using fresh (not formalin-preserved or frozen) lung and tracheal tissues. Virus detection in respiratory secretion specimens from acutely ill animals by use of viral culture, PCR analysis, or rapid chromatographic immunoassay is possible, but usually unrewarding. The Cornell Animal Health Diagnostic Center is currently accepting samples for analysis.

Treatment
As for all viral diseases, treatment is largely supportive. Good husbandry and nutrition may assist dogs in mounting an effective immune response. In the milder form of the disease, a thick green nasal discharge most likely represents a secondary bacterial infection that usually resolves quickly after treatment with a broad-spectrum bactericidal antimicrobial. Pneumonia in more severely affected dogs responds best to a combination of broad-spectrum bactericidal antimicrobials (to combat secondary bacterial infections) and maintenance of hydration via intravenous administration of fluids. Most dogs recover from canine influenza within 2-3 weeks.4

Currently available antiviral drugs are approved for use in humans only and little is known about their use, efficacy and safety in dogs. Veterinarians who use approved drugs in a manner that is not in accord with approved label directions (e.g., use of an antiviral drug only approved for use in humans) must follow the federal extralabel drug use regulations of the Animal Medicinal Drug Use Clarification Act (AMDUCA).

Morbidity and mortality
The morbidity rate (the number of exposed animals that develop disease) associated with canine influenza is estimated at 80%. Deaths occur mainly in dogs with the severe form of disease; the mortality rate is thought to be 1-5% or slightly higher. Higher case fatality rates have been reported in small groups of greyhounds that developed hemorrhagic pneumonia during outbreaks.5

Prevention and control
In veterinary, boarding and shelter facilities, the canine influenza virus appears to be easily killed by disinfectants commonly used in these facilities, such as quaternary ammonium compounds (eg, benzalkonium chloride) and bleach solutions.4 Protocols should be established for thoroughly cleaning and disinfecting cages, bowls and other surfaces between uses. The virus may persist in the environment for approximately 2 days, and be viable on hands and clothing for up to 24 hours

Employees should wash their hands with soap and water:

before and after handling each dog
after coming into contact with dogs' saliva, urine, feces, or blood
after cleaning cages
upon arriving at and before leaving the facility.
Isolation protocols should be rigorously applied for dogs showing clinical signs of respiratory disease. Sick or exposed dogs should be isolated for two weeks. Clothing, equipment, surfaces and hands should be cleaned and disinfected after exposure to dogs showing signs of respiratory disease.2 Dog owners whose dogs are coughing or exhibiting other signs of respiratory disease should not participate in activities or bring their dogs to facilities where other dogs can be exposed to the virus.7

In May 2009, the USDA approved the licensure of the first influenza vaccine for dogs developed by Intervet/Schering Plough Animal Health Corporation. The canine influenza vaccine contains inactivated whole virus.8,9

The vaccine is intended as an aid in the control of disease associated with CI virus infection. Although the vaccine may not prevent infection altogether, efficacy trials have shown that the vaccination may significantly reduce the severity and duration of clinical illness, including the incidence and severity of damage to the lungs.4 In addition, the vaccine reduces the amount of virus shed and shortens the shedding interval; therefore, vaccinated dogs that become infected develop less severe illness and are less likely to spread the virus to other dogs.9 These benefits are similar to those provided by influenza vaccines used in other species, including humans.

The canine influenza vaccine is a "lifestyle" vaccine, and is not recommended for every dog.4 In general, the vaccine is intended for the protection of dogs at risk for exposure to the CI virus, which include those that either participate in activities with many other dogs or are housed in communal facilities, particularly where the virus is prevalent. Dogs that may benefit from canine influenza vaccination include those that receive the kennel cough (Bordetella/parainfluenza) vaccine, because the risk groups are similar.5 Dog owners should consult with their veterinarian to determine whether their dog's lifestyle includes risks for exposure to the CI virus, and if the vaccine is appropriate for their dog.6, 9
We would like to thank Dr. Cynda Crawford from the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine for her contributions to the AVMA's canine influenza resources.

Links to more information about canine influenza

Control of Canine Influenza in Dogs: Questions, Answers and Interim Guidelines (AVMA)

Canine Influenza: Podcast by Dr. Cynda Crawford (AVMA)

Key Facts about Canine Influenza (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)

Canine Influenza: Frequently Asked Questions by Dog Owners (University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine)

Canine Influenza Fact Sheet (Iowa State University)

Canine Influenza (University of California-Davis Shelter Medicine Program)

Canine Influenza Virus: Detection, Sampling and Statistics (Cornell University Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory)

References

Meyer M. UF veterinary researchers discover a new disease in dogs. Explore: Research at the University of Florida; 2006:11. Available at: http://www.research.ufl.edu/publication ... tory3.html. Accessed on August 19, 2009.
Crawford C. Canine influenza: Frequently asked questions from dog owners. University of Florida; 2009. Available at: http://www.vetmed.ufl.edu/college/pr/do ... rs_001.pdf . Accessed on August 19, 2009.
Cornell University: College of Veterinary Medicine. Emerging issues - Canine influenza: Test summary for canine influenza virus in dogs not affiliated with greyhound racetracks Animal Health Diagnostic Center. Available at: http://www.diaglab.vet.cornell.edu/issues/civ-stat.asp. Accessed on August 19, 2009.
Crawford C. Canine influenza: Frequently asked questions from veterinarians. University of Florida; 2009. Available at: http://www.vetmed.ufl.edu/college/pr/do ... ns_000.pdf . Accessed on September 3, 2009.
Iowa State University. Canine Influenza 2009. Available at: http://www.cfsph.iastate.edu/Factsheets ... luenza.pdf. Accessed on August 19, 2009.
Control of canine influenza: Questions, answers, and interim guidelines. American Veterinary Medical Association; 2005. Available at: http://www.avma.org/public_health/influ ... elines.asp. Accessed on August 19, 2009.
Cornell University: College of Veterinary Medicine. Emerging issues - Canine influenza virus. Animal Health Diagnostic Center; 2006.Available at: http://www.diaglab.vet.cornell.edu/issues/civ.asp . Accessed on August 19, 2009.
United States Department of Agriculture. Animal and Plant Inspection Service. Veterinary Services: Center for Veterinary Biologics. Center for Veterinary Biologics Notice No. 09-13. Issuance of Licenses. 2009. Available at: http://www.aphis.usda.gov/animal_health ... _09_13.pdf. Accessed on August 19, 2009.
Cole, L. McNally, A. APHIS issues conditional license for canine influenza virus vaccine. United States Department of Agriculture. Animal and Plant Inspection Service; 2009. Available at: http://www.aphis.usda.gov/newsroom/cont ... vacc.shtml. Accessed on August 19, 2009.

http://www.avma.org/public_health/influenza/canine_bgnd.asp

 
 

More information from Susan, Chelsea, Candy and Crystal in Pittsburgh
 

Yes, there is a dog flu. It was here in PA at the shelters and they had to close them. A dog or two died from it.

Animal health > Dogs' social lives and disease risks > Disease risks for dogs

Disease Risks for Dogs

Disease risks for dogs

Disease risks for people

Common sense measures to protect your dogs, yourself and others

PDF file Print version

The following is a list of the most common diseases to which your dog(s) may be exposed at a dog gathering. There may be specific risks in your area that are not listed. For more information about specific diseases in your area, consult your veterinarian.

People can also spread some diseases (such as mange, ringworm, kennel cough and canine influenza) from dog to dog through shared brushes, collars, bedding, etc. or by petting or handling an infected dog before petting or handling another dog.

Canine distemper
Canine distemper is caused by a very contagious virus. Puppies and dogs usually become infected through virus particles in the air or in the respiratory secretions of infected dogs. Infected dogs typically develop runny eyes, fever, snotty nose, coughing, vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, and paralysis. It is often fatal.

Fortunately, there is an effective vaccine to protect your dog from this deadly disease. The canine distemper vaccine is considered a "core" vaccine and is recommended for every dog.

Canine influenza ("canine flu" or "dog flu")
Canine influenza is caused by the canine influenza virus. It is a relatively new disease in dogs. Because most dogs have not been exposed to the virus, their immune systems are not able to fully respond to the virus and many of them will become infected when they are exposed. Canine influenza is spread through respiratory secretions, contaminated objects (including surfaces, bowls, collars and leashes). The virus can survive for up to 48 hours on surfaces, up to 24 hours on clothing, and up to 12 hours on people's hands.

Dogs can be shedding the virus before they even show signs of illness, which means an apparently healthy dog can still infect other dogs. Dogs with canine influenza develop coughing, a fever and a snotty nose, which are the same signs observed when a dog has kennel cough.

There is a vaccine for canine influenza, but at this time it is not recommended for every dog. Consult your veterinarian to determine if the canine influenza vaccine is recommended for your dog. (From the AVMA)

Susan


_________________
Chelsea, Candy and Crystal in Pittsburgh
 

 

 

 

 

 

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