Dr. Royal Advises CBS 2 Viewers About “Dog Flu” (Canine Influenza)
Posted on September 22nd, 2009
Dr. Royal answered questions from CBS 2 News Chicago concerning “dog flu” and what you should know as a pet owner…
What is canine influenza?
This particular viral respiratory infection was discovered in 2004. It is the H3N8 subtype of the influenza A virus. It is typically seen in dogs that have been in crowded, high density situations. Most exposed animals will get the virus and most will recover from the acute respiratory infection (cough, sneezing, runny nose, sometimes a fever) without the need for medication or hospitalization.
What is the biggest worry?
Rarely, the infection can progress to pneumonia (usually due to secondary bacterial infection). The virus itself does not usually cause death, but in some cases, the secondary pneumonia can be life-threatening. Signs of this would be more severe coughing, lethargy, and fever. Most animals can recover from the pneumonia with hospitalization, antibiotics and supportive care.
How is it transmitted?
Dogs transmit the virus by nose to nose contact, and aerosolized fluids (from coughing or sneezing). It can also be transmitted through food and water bowls and surfaces. Luckily, the virus is easily inactivated by simple washing with soap and water.
Can humans get it?
There are no known transmissions of this virus to humans.
What about the vaccine?
I do not recommend the vaccine for my typical patients, as their exposure and risk of serious disease is not high. Most dogs, even if they get this virus, will recover on their own.
Licensing for the vaccine for this virus was approved in May of 2009 by the USDA. It has been tested on 700 dogs. It may not prevent infection, but is hopefully able to reduce severity of the disease. I would like to see more information on the efficacy and safety of this vaccine.
Dogs that are in very crowded situations with other dogs, or perhaps shelter dogs, may benefit from this vaccine, although my jury is still out.
We often over-vaccinate in this country. I think the judicious use of appropriate vaccines is a helpful method of disease prevention, but the exposure and risks must be clear. Vaccines can cause immune system issues themselves, and they are not without their own risks.
