Health Alert : Dog Flu Outbreak
Last summer when Canine Influenza was affecting dogs in Chicago, we covered the outbreak and provided warning signs owners should be aware of to keep their own dogs safe. Now the virus (known as H3N8) is back; cases have been reported in Virginia,Colorado, New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. The Fairfax County Animal Shelter in VA has been closed after 26 dogs fell ill and a 15 year-old dog belonging to a kennel tech died from the flu.
Veterinarians are concerned about the spread of the virus, especially since shelter animals often travel across state lines due to the work of breed rescues. Researchers fear this could cause the disease to reach untouched pet populations.
Photo by KCA
The good news is, last month a vaccine was released for canine influenza. Clinical trials shows that it reduces shedding of the virus and also diminishes signs. One vaccine is given and then boostered 3 weeks later. It has been suggested that dogs in areas with outbreaks receive the vaccine to control the spread of the disease. This is a new development since our story was written last summer.
To read more about Canine Influenza, click here.
