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Did you get your flu shot? As the debate over H1N1 virus rages on this flu season, there is another virus, H3N8, that is threatening dogs this year. H3N8, or Canine Influenza (Horse Flu) is not contagious to homo sapiens (people), but for dogs it can be deadly. Fortunately, there is a new vaccine available to safeguard pooches. At the Ridgewood Vet Hospital in New Jersey a steady flow of dog owners and their barking companions braved the $20 shot, the first of a two-part inoculation process.
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,thus the nick name “Horse flu”. The virus mutated about 40 years ago and began infecting dogs ever since.And yes According to the American Veterinary Medical Association it is contagious.
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,like humans the young old and in firmed are most susceptible puppies. 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.
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.
A letter send out to clients this week from Dr. Dean Cerf at the Ridgewood Vet Hospital about Canine Influenza recommended that they bring in their dogs into his clinic for shots. “The virus can persist for 2-4 days in the environment,” he says, which means that contact with balls, clothes — even our hands — spreads the disease.
the Ridgewood blog staff