In the News: Canine Influenza

What is Canine Influenza?

Canine Influenza H3N8 is a contagious respiratory disease caused by a specific influenza virus known as "canine influenza virus". The H3N8 canine influenza virus was initially identified in 2005 as a newly evolved strain of the existing equine influenza virus. Scientists have determined that the equine strain adapted and jumped to a new host - the dog - and has evolved to spread efficiently among dogs. To date, there is no evidence of transmission of this virus from an exposed dog to a human.

What are the symptoms of Canine Influenza?

Dogs can be exposed to the virus through direct contact with respiratory secretions, contaminated surfaces, or through people moving between infected and uninfected dogs. Most dogs will show symptoms that include a cough, runny nose, and fever.  A small proportion of dogs can develop a more serious disease that can lead to pneumonia or possibly death.  About 80 percent of dogs exposed will have a mild form of disease. Treatment consists largely of supportive therapy. A vaccine is now available to combat the spread of Canine Influenza.

Points to Consider:

● Vaccinated dogs can still get and spread the disease, but symptoms will be less severe. 
● Dogs in contact with other dogs at parks, shelters, grooming and boarding facilities, or dog training classes will likely be the first affected. Because of the ease of transmission, outbreaks have occurred quickly when the virus has appeared in other areas of the country.
● As of September 22, 2009, there have been no confirmed cases of canine flu in Missouri, however it has been confirmed in 30 states, including 7 of 9 states bordering Missouri.
● Immunization consists of 2 subcutaneous injections 3 weeks apart.

Our Current Recommendation:

Due to our relatively rural location and the lack of confirmed cases in Missouri at this time, we are not currently carrying the H3N8 vaccination.  If concern and demand increases, we will consider adding the Canine Influenza vaccination to our current protocol. 

However, there are specific situations where vaccination may be appropriate.  If you and your dog regularly travel to any state where H3N8 has been confirmed (Illinois, Kentucky, Iowa, Arkansas, Oklahoma, Kansas among others) or if your dog is involved in social situations with other dogs, such as a very large boarding facility or large dog show, you may consider vaccination as a good preventative measure.

If you are concerned that your dog may meet this extreme exposure criteria, please call the office staff at (417) 256-6145 for further discussion about whether the canine flu vaccine may be appropriate in your situation.