CIV positive pets reported in South Bay
URGENT PUBLIC PET HEALTH ANNOUNCEMENT
An outbreak of canine influenza, or “dog flu”, has been confirmed in the South Bay this week.
The canine flu is a highly contagious respiratory infection of dogs. Within the U.S., two influenza strains have been identified as the cause of these infections. Treatment is effective but pets may develop secondary infections and require isolation for up to 3 weeks.
Symptoms can resemble those of infectious tracheobronchitis, or “kennel cough” and then worsen as the condition progresses:
“Dogs infected with CIV [dog flu] develop a persistent cough and may develop a thick nasal discharge and fever (often 104-105oF). Other signs can include lethargy, eye discharge and reduced appetite. Canine influenza infections can cause mild to severe illness in dogs. Some infected dogs may not show any signs of illness, but can still be contagious and able to infect other dogs
Most dogs recover within 2-3 weeks. However, some dogs may develop secondary bacterial infections which may lead to more severe illness and pneumonia. Anyone with concerns about their pet’s health, or whose pet is showing signs of canine influenza, should contact their veterinarian.” – AVMA
Is your dog at risk?
“Because this is still an emerging disease and dogs in the U.S. have not been exposed to it before, almost all dogs, regardless of breed or age, lack immunity to it and are susceptible to infection if exposed to the active virus. Virtually all dogs exposed to the virus become infected, and nearly 80% show clinical signs of disease, though most exhibit the mild form described above.
However, the risk of any dog being exposed to the canine influenza virus depends on that dog’s lifestyle. Dogs that are frequently or regularly exposed to other dogs – for example at boarding or day care facilities, dog parks, grooming salons, [dog shows] or social events with other dogs present – are at greater risk of coming into contact with the virus. Also, as with other infectious diseases, extra precautions may be needed with puppies, elderly or pregnant dogs, and dogs that are immunocompromised.” – AVMA
Help protect not only your pet, but the beloved pets in our community as well, by vaccinating your dog and preventing the spread of the dog flu!
We protect against both the H3N2 and H3N8 strains with two immunizations two weeks apart. Call today to schedule your dog’s flu vaccine series! (510)278-8440
Click on the following links for more information.
https://www.nbcbayarea.com/…/South-Bay-Pet-Hospital-Reports…
https://www.avma.org/…/Control-of-Canine-Influenza-in-Dogs.…
