Information from the Jaffe Animal Clinic

New Flu Vaccine approved – for dogs

A new Canine Flu vaccine has been approved by the United States Department of Agriculture (U.S.D.A.) for the H3N8 Canine Flu.  This vaccine is currently only conditionally licensed. This virus has been around for about 5 years now but a vaccine has now been approved as of June, 2009.  Veterinary researchers at leading veterinary universities around the country who have been studying this virus report that most canine flu infections are mild and self-limiting with the highest incidence occurring in boarding kennels and shelters.  This virus is estimated to be fatal in around 1% of the affected population, and in a population of 70 million, this is a very small number. This virus has not been shown to cross species to cats or humans.

Current recommendations are that this vaccine be used only on  a limited basis for those dogs in facilities where the virus has been confirmed; not necessarily in those in private households.  If you are planning on leaving your dog in a boarding facility, it is recommended that you find out if the facility has had a problem with the Canine Flu, or arrange for your dog to stay with your veterinary facility while you are traveling. Early symptoms of Canine Flu in infected dogs resemble those of “Kennel Cough” which include upper respiratory signs such as coughing and nasal discharge.  This disease can progress to severe symptoms brought on by pneumonia which is why early treatment is recommended.  Early treatment includes antibiotics with more intense treatment for those dogs with more severe symptoms.  If your dog shows any signs of a respiratory illness, you should contact our office immediately. 

Our office will have this vaccine available for those requesting it and we will be recommending it only for those dogs whose lifestyle puts them at greater risk. The initial series requires two vaccines, given 2-3 weeks apart and then boostered regularly for those dogs at risk. The doctors at the Jaffe Animal Clinic will be monitoring information regarding the H3N8 Canine Influenza virus along with information regarding the vaccine and will provide more information to our clients as it becomes available. 

Common Questions and Answers:
2009 H1N1 in Companion Animals

What animals can be infected with the 2009 H1N1 virus?
In addition to humans, live swine and turkeys, we know that ferrets (which are highly susceptible to influenza A viruses) and a domestic cat have been infected with 2009 H1N1 virus. CDC is working closely with domestic and international public and animal health partners to continually monitor this situation and will provide additional information to the public as it becomes available.

How do companion animals become infected with 2009 H1N1?
All available information suggests that the ferrets and domestic cat with 2009 H1N1 infections acquired the virus through close contact with ill humans. Transmission of 2009 H1N1 virus from humans to animals appears similar to human-to-human transmission

Can I get 2009 H1N1 influenza from my pet?
Available evidence suggests that transmission has been from ill humans to their companion animals. No evidence is available to suggest that animals are infecting humans with 2009 H1N1 virus.

What do I do if I am sick with flu-like symptoms and I have pets?
If you are sick with influenza-like-illness, take the same precautions with your pets that you would to keep your family and friends healthy:

·         Cover your coughs and sneezes

·         Wash your hands frequently

·         Minimize contact with your pets until 24 hours after your fever is gone

What should I do if I suspect my pet has 2009 H1N1 influenza virus?
If members of your household have flu-like symptoms, and your pet exhibits respiratory illness, contact your veterinarian.

Is there a vaccine available for my pet?
Currently, there is not a licensed and approved 2009 H1N1 vaccine for companion animals. (There is a canine influenza vaccine, which protects dogs from the H3N8 canine flu virus, but it will not protect pets against the 2009 H1N1 virus and should not be used in any species other than dogs.)

How serious is this disease in companion animals?
Pet ferrets with naturally occurring 2009 H1N1 infection have exhibited illness similar in severity as seen with ferrets exposed to seasonal influenza viruses and 2009 H1N1 virus in laboratory settings, including sneezing, inactivity, and weight loss. The single confirmed cat exhibited respiratory illness and recovered with supportive care.

Additional Information American Veterinary Medical Association http://www.avma.org/public_health/influenza/new_virus/default.asp United States Department of Agriculture http://www.usda.gov/wps/portal/?navid=USDA_H1N1

Note: Much of the information in this document is based on studies and past experience with seasonal (human) influenza.  CDC believes the information applies to 2009 H1N1 (swine) viruses as well, but studies on this virus are ongoing to learn more about its characteristics. This document will be updated as new information becomes available.