Canine Influenza Outbreak

Owners should call the receptionists when they arrive at the clinic and wait in their car with the dogs that may have Canine Influenza. Neither the owner nor the dog should enter the waiting room if possible.

Most dogs will exhibit a cough that can persist for 10-21 days despite antibiotics. The viral infection, Canine Influenza, often resembles canine tracheobronchitis (Kennel Cough) which is caused by one or more bacterial or viral infections, including Bordetella Bronchiseptica and parainfluenza virus. Due to the damage or cell death of respiratory tract epithelial cells caused by the Canine Influenza virus, secondary respiratory infections can occur.

1. Transmission: Droplets or aerosols (respiratory secretions from coughing, barking, sneezing). High-risk areas: Kennels, groomers, daycare facilities, and shelters are at increased risk of infection. It can also be transmitted indirectly through objects (food/water bowls, collars, leashes). Viruses can remain viable on surfaces for up to 48 hours, on clothing for 24 hours, and on hands for 12 hours.
2. Clinical signs occur 2-8 days after infection of Canine Influenza.
3. Dogs are most contagious during the incubation period, the first 1-5 days, when they may not exhibit clinical signs. Some dogs have subclinical infections but are shedding the virus.
4. Clinical signs: Nasal and/or ocular discharge, sneezing, lethargy, and anorexia (not eating) may also be observed. Additionally, a soft, moist cough or a dry cough similar to that induced by kennel cough may be exhibited. This cough can last 10-21 days. Many dogs develop a purulent nasal discharge (green to yellow discharge) and fever (104-105F). The nasal discharge is usually caused by secondary bacterial infections, including Pasteurella multocida and mycoplasma species.
5. Cats infected with H3N2 display signs of upper respiratory disease, including nasal discharge, congestion, malaise, lip smacking, and excessive salivation.
6. No Canine-Human transmission reported: To this day, it has not been shown that Canine Influenza is transmitted to humans; however, keep in mind the influenza virus can mutate. Previously, the World Health Organization's global surveillance system has led to the detection of human infections by novel influenza A viruses of animal origin (such as avian or swine influenza A viruses).
7. Testing: The most accurate is PCR testing performed on swabs of the nasal cavity and caudal pharynx (which can be done at the vet's office, usually from the car).
8. Treatment: Supportive. Most recover in 2-3 weeks and often as outpatients. The mortality rate (death rate) is
9. Prevention: To prevent transmission of the virus, dogs infected with canine H3N2 influenza, as well as other dogs in the household, should be isolated for 4 weeks.
10. Vaccinations for Canine Influenza are 1 shot and a booster in 3 weeks then a yearly vaccine.

Other informative website links:

https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/animal-health-and-welfare/canine-influenza

https://vetmed-hospitals.sites.medinfo.ufl.edu/files/2017/05/FAQ-K9-Influenza.pdf

Vaccines are available for both H3N8 and H3N2 Canine Influenza. A bivalent vaccine offering protection against both strains is also available. Currently, there are no Canine Influenza vaccines approved for use in cats. Vaccination can reduce the risk of a dog contracting Canine Influenza. Vaccination may not altogether prevent an infection, but it may reduce the severity and duration of clinical illness.

The Canine Influenza vaccine is a "lifestyle" vaccine and is not recommended for every dog. In general, the vaccine is intended to protect dogs at risk for exposure to the Canine Influenza virus, which includes those that participate in activities with many other dogs or are housed in communal facilities:

• Competitive dog events
• Dog parks
• Camp grounds or hiking areas
• Grooming shops
• Daycare and boarding facilities

Particularly where the virus is prevalent, but all dogs can contract the virus from other infected dogs or vectors (inanimate objects such as dog bowls, clothing, etc). Dogs that may benefit from Canine Influenza vaccination include those that receive the kennel cough (Bordetella/parainfluenza) vaccine because the risk groups are similar. Dog owners should consult with their veterinarian to determine their dog's risk of exposure to the Canine Influenza virus and if vaccination is appropriate for their dog.