ASPCA Launches Investigation into Dog Flu

The ASPCA launched a three-year study on Canine Influenza Virus (CIV) funded by the Morris Animal Foundation. The initiative will help shelters develop effective testing and control methods to limit the effects of this disease. The study—conducted by Dr. Miranda Spindel, ASPCA Director of Veterinary Outreach, and Dr. Gabriele Landolt of Tampa, Austin, Sacramento, Charleston., New York City, as well as a regional shelter in Denver.

“Canine Influenza is a newly emerging disease that does not discriminate by breed or age,” says Dr. Spindel. “It is critical that we gain a better understanding of the transmission of CIV in order to limit its effects.”

First identified as a respiratory pathogen in 2004, CIV has spread widely among dogs in the United States. The virus is transmitted in droplets created by coughing and sneezing. As a consequence, close contact and closed environments favor transmission. In fact, the highest incidence of canine influenza is found in dogs that are housed in groups such as in shelters.

“Infection control practices can reduce the risk of CIV and are key to preventing the spread of viral disease within facilities. Due to the fact that the virus is easily transmitted between dogs housed in close contact with each other, it is problematic for animal shelters. This study seeks to address this vulnerable population,” Dr. Spindel says.

In addition to examining the spread of CIV among shelter dogs, the study will determine whether a rapid “bedside” test can be effectively used for screening dogs upon entering the shelter. If such a test were available, dogs could be tested for CIV prior to entering the main shelter population, thereby preventing virus introduction.

The scientists will also determine how the CIV virus changes over time, a process known as “genetic drift.”  As with human flu viruses, animal influenza viruses constantly evolve. New strains can develop that require new vaccine technology. The information gained in this study regarding the potential evolution of CIV in shelters may ultimately aid in the development, improvement, and use of vaccines to prevent the disease.

Dogs that have signs of secondary bacterial infections such as nasal discharge, a continuous cough, or pneumonia, should visit their veterinarians. Most can be treated with antibiotics. “Ideally, antibiotics are chosen on the basis of culture and sensitivity,” explains Dr. Spindel. “There is no single correct way to treat CIV. There are antiviral medications available specifically aimed at influenza infections, but their use is not generally advocated in dogs with the canine influenza virus. These medications must be given early in the course of infection. There are no recommended dosing strategies, and there are no safety/efficacy studies available in dogs to reference. Additionally, the virus can develop resistance to these drugs. Supportive care with fluid therapy and nutritional support is always recommended. “

If your dog has any of the above symptoms, take him to his veterinarian. You cannot get CIV or the flu from your dog.

Readers’ Comments:

Bill Craig DVM wrote:
The H3N8 virus was originally a horse flu virus that mutated to dogs and is now the cause of canine influenza. I know of no reported cases of H3N8 in people or cats. There have been two cats diagnosed with the H1N1 “swine flu” virus, one in Iowa and one in Utah. In both cases health officials believe that the cats were infected from human family members. On our web site at www.purinacare.com we have useful information on canine influenza (H3N8) and on swine flu (H1N1) in pets. Just click on the following links:
Dog Flu: http://pethealthlibrary.purinacare.com/dog-flu
Swine Flu in Pets: http://pethealthlibrary.purinacare.com/swine-flu
–From Bill Craig, DVM, and spokesperson for Purina