July 2015

H3N2 CANINE INFLUENZA VIRUS OUTBREAK EXPANDS: New Regional Focus in Atlanta, GA.

An outbreak of a new strain of canine influenza, the avian-origin H3N2 subtype, is expanding to additional states. The 2015 Midwest H3N2 outbreak began in the greater Chicago region in March 2015. Over the next three months, isolated cases have been reported in 17 additional states, including Alabama, California, Georgia, Indiana, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, South Dakota, Texas, Virginia, and Wisconsin. In June, a growing number of cases began to be reported in the greater Atlanta regions, suggesting the development of a new regional epidemic.

Our veterinarians strongly recommend every dog exposed to other animals to be vaccinated with the Nobivac Canine Flu H3N8. In other words: Any time a Bordetella vaccination is required/recommended, vaccinate your dog against the Canine Flu. 

The initial dose of this vaccine may be given at 6 weeks of age or older. A second dose is given 2 to 4 weeks later. A minimum of two doses is required for primary immunization.

Effective 15 April 2015 Nobivac Canine Flu H3N8 Guarantee Coverage:
A dog properly vaccinated with Nobivac Canine Flu H3N8 will be covered by our (=Merck Animal Health) guarantee for H3N2 as a goodwill gesture until it is known whether Nobivac Canine Flu H3N8 cross-protects against H3N2. If it is determined that cross-protection is not expected, the guarantee may be amended to exclude H3N2 positive dogs. Ask your veterinarian for details.

What do pet owners need to know?

· The virus spreads rapidly, especially at boarding facilities, groomers, doggy day cares, dog parks and other spots where dogs co-mingle.

 · Canine influenza virus can be spread by direct contact with respiratory discharge from infected dogs, through the air via a cough or sneeze, and by contact with contaminated objects such as dog bowls and clothing, or by people moving between infected and uninfected dogs.

· Dog owners whose dogs are coughing or showing other signs of respiratory disease should not participate in activities or bring their dogs to facilities where other dogs can be exposed to the virus.

· Call your veterinarian immediately if your dog has the following symptoms: -Coughing -Discharge from the nose or eyes -Loss of appetite -Lethargy/lack of energy

· Clothing, equipment, surfaces, and hands should be cleaned and disinfected after exposure to dogs showing signs of respiratory disease.

· Treatment consists mainly of supportive care, such as fluids and medication to help a dog be more comfortable.

 · More information about Canine Influenza Virus is available at http://www.doginfluenza.com/
 

Courtesy of Baker Institute For Animal Health