The New Dog Flu

By:  Mary Lou Gerace

In the Fall of 2005, the newly discovered dog “virus” or dog “flu” became a hot topic on a majority of the dog-related email lists of which I am a member.   Rumors ran rampant of dogs dying in great numbers and panic seemed to take hold.  As the story unfolded, and the actual numbers became public, researcher’s indicated that the disease is deadly only in rare cases.  Recent numbers on actual deaths is being reported at approximately 1 to 10 percent of “puppies and older dogs” that have contracted the virus.  However, there was and is still concern, as the “virus” is still on the rise. 

The virus is somewhat like the typical “kennel cough”, which is a highly contagious inflammation of the trachea (windpipe) and bronchial tree.  Typical “kennel cough” is caused by a contagious virus (adenovirus, parainfluenza virus, canine distemper virus) or bacterium (Bordetella bronchiseptica).  Most cases of the typical kennel cough produce a mild to moderate cough without other symptoms and usually runs its course in approximately 10 days (although an occasional case may develop into chronic bronchitis). 

The new virus in addition to a “cough” may produce high temperatures, nasal discharge, and sometimes fatal pneumonia (rare cases). The incubation period (time from exposure to symptoms) is estimated to be 2 to 5 days and the dog may exhibit signs (coughing, etc) for up to 21 days.

Specifics to Watch for:

·        Upper respiratory problems such as irritated eyes (conjunctivitis), runny nose (rhinitis) and/or sneezing;

·        The “cough” either alone or that worsens with activity and excitement.  It may persist for several minutes.  If secondary bacterial pneumonia develops, the dog may exhibit loss of appetite, depression, and fever;

·        Fever (high as 106 degrees F)

·        Breathing difficulties

·        Change in activity level

Any of the above signs whether alone or in conjunction with each other, should prompt a visit to the vet!

I recently read that the new virus is being called:

·        Canine Influenza Virus

·        Greyhound Disease

·        Race Flu

The last two names given are a result of research done by Dr. Cynda Crawford, an immunologist at the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine.  She began investigating the virus after its first outbreak at a Greyhound racetrack in Jacksonville , Florida in January of 2004.  It has been reported that the virus is a mutation of an equine influenza strain. 

The flu virus can be spread by air, as well as contact.  Those most at risk are dogs housed in shelters, kennels, boarding facilities and other situations where there is a large concentration of dogs under one roof, such as dog shows and training classes!   Another good “breeding ground” for the flu is parks and specifically, dog parks, where dogs are allowed to be off leash and socialize.  Dogs that share toys, water dishes, etc., will also be sharing their germs!  One thing to keep in mind is if there is a multitude of dogs together under one roof and “one” dog happens to have the virus, then the virus will spread quickly!

Earlier it was reported the virus had reached 13 states.  Those states included Arizona , Arkansas , Colorado , Florida , Iowa , Kansas , Massachusetts , New Jersey , New York , Rhode Island , Texas , West Virginia , and Wisconsin .  This month I read an article in the local newspaper that the “virus” had arrived in my state of Illinois .  Local vets were having multiple dogs come in with the typical kennel cough symptoms.  It is now being reported that cases are being documented by veterinarians in almost every state.  Unfortunately, there is not a good communication system between states to determine the full extent of the virus and there is no test for vets to administer to positively diagnose the virus.

The only good(?) news about the new virus is that approximately 80 percent of the dogs exposed to the virus contract only a MILD form of the disease, which mimics the typical “kennel cough.”  Kennel cough is rarely serious and most dogs are regularly vaccinated for it. Unfortunately, the present vaccination and intra-nasal drops do not protect a dog from the new virus.  One report indicated there is a new vaccine currently being developed.

Recommendations:

·        Don’t panic

·        Make sure your dog is up to date on all vaccinations or run titers to ensure proper levels of immunities

·        If your dog exhibits any signs of respiratory illness, immediately seek veterinarian help.  Tell the doctor if your dog recently boarded at a kennel, played at a dog park, or was anywhere with multiple dogs, i.e., dog show/training classes

·        If you must “board” your dog, make sure the facility is well ventilated and that all animals boarded are required to be up to date on vaccinations, etc.

·        Stay on the lookout for announcements of the virus in your local area

Most dogs recover from the dog flu with little or no treatment other than antibiotics to fight secondary infections.  In severe cases, intravenous fluids may be necessary.  If your dog exhibits any symptoms, play it safe and consult your vet! 

References:  http://www.avma.org/onlnews/javma/nov05/051101a.asp http://www.cdc.gov/od/oc/media/transcripts/t050926.htm

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