Dog Flu Outbreak: What this means for Delmarva
Veterinarians across the country are now urging pet owners to be especially cautious now that outbreaks of canine influenza, commonly known as “dog flu”, are being reported in a number of states.
The latest reports show 12 states are now affected. A map, put together by Cornell University’s “Animal Health Diagnostic Center” shows the states with positive cases, between March 13 through May 6. It shows there were 5 positive cases in the Northeast, with 3 in New Jersey.
Although it doesn’t appear there are any positive cases on Delmarva, David Fitzgerald, Executive Director at the Humane Society of Wicomico County tells 47 ABC what they’ll be on the look out for, “The kennel staff monitors the animals. If they see any behavioral differences or if the animal is lethargic, not moving around, or slow, or has irregular bathroom habits, then our vet tech is alerted. If needed, that dog or cat would go to see a vet for a full exam.”
Dog flu can be caused by two viruses. The H3N8 and the H3N2 strain. It’s the latter strain which appears to be causing all the trouble.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention believe the H3N2 strain originated in Asia and first appeared in the U.S. in April. It has since caused a massive outbreak in the Midwest.
Kansas State University announced this week that veterinarians can now run tests to determine if a sick dog is infected with H3N2, which can also help determine if the virus is mutating.
However there is still no vaccine for this specific strain.
“The vaccines that are out there for the H3N8 that is prevalent in the United States,” explains Dr. Susan Nelson, a veterinarian with KSU. “It’s still unknown if there’s much cross-protection. So the main thing is be vigilant about where you’re taking your dog. Watch for signs.”
Dog flu symptoms are similar to the symptoms that manifest with human influenza, such as runny nose, coughing, and fatigue. But the CDC admits some dogs don’t show any symptoms.
Dr. Nelson says the infection can easily be passed along in places where dogs are grouped together, like doggie daycares, dog parks, and boarding facilities. Also it’s important to keep in mind that dog flu is not seasonal like human flu, so your pet can be infected any time of year.
The CDC says H3N2 only affects animals.
