As the H1N1 virus tries to wiggle its way into as many of us as it can this flu season, there is another virus, H3N8, that is threatening dogs this year. H3N8, or Canine Influenza, is not contagious to humans, but for dogs it can be deadly. Fortunately, there is a new two-part vaccine available to safeguard pooches.
Canine Influenza was discovered in the United States as the cause of respiratory disease outbreaks involving thousands of greyhounds at race tracks in several states from 2003 to 2005. It has since spread to at least 30 states. Originally a disease that afflicts horses, the virus mutated about 40 years ago and began infecting dogs ever since. “It is highly contagious,” says Dr. Kimberly May of the American Veterinary Medical Association.
Exposure to H3N8 is highest in kennels, shelters, pet stores, dog shows and other communal settings. Although dogs of any age, breed and health status are susceptible, puppies, old dogs, and dogs with pre-existing health issues are especially at risk. Veterinarians say that virtually all dogs that are exposed to the virus become infected. About 80 percent of them can show symptoms such as cough, sneezing, nasal discharge, and some ocular discharge. Coughs typically last two to three weeks. Twenty percent of dogs can become seriously ill, developing bronchopneumonia and secondary bacterial infections. Dogs with pneumonia have high fever, respiratory distress and in some cases severe hypoxia. If untreated, such conditions may lead to death.
It takes about 7-14 days for dogs to mount the initial antibody response to the H3N8 vaccine. About 2-4 weeks after the first $20 inoculation, a booster shot is given. The vaccine protects dogs for a year. Vets say that the shots may not prevent infection altogether, but efficacy trials have shown that the vaccine significantly reduces the severity and length of illness.
Source: foxnews.com
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