Influenza H3N8 has been around for some time now, but more recently the H3N2 virus is continuing to spread throughout the United States. Within the U.S., the virus was first discovered in Chicago in 2015. Most recently in 2018, there have been new outbreaks in California, Michigan and Florida. The virus is known to affect dogs as well as cats, but is not typically transferred to people.
The virus can survive for up to 12 hours on hands, 24 hours on clothing and 48 hours on surfaces (1). Infected or exposed pets should be isolated from other dogs and cats for 4 weeks. Some animals may shed the virus without showing any symptoms.
Both strains have been found in Colorado. For more information on dog flu, you can visit the website www.dogflu.com.
The virus can be spread through direct contact with an infected dog, airborne through coughing or sneezing, or contact with contaminated objects such as clothing, bowls, toys or people's hands.
Symptoms can vary from mild to severe. Most commonly, dogs will have a fever, cough and be lethargic. Some may develop loss of appetite or other g.i. symptoms.
Vaccines now exist for both the H3N8 and H3N2 viruses. While pets that are not travelling are at low risk, pets that are travelling to dog shows, agility trials, boarding or travelling with owners to public places (i.e. RV parks ) are at higher risk of exposure. The vaccine is generally well tolerated, but as with any vaccine, reactions can occur.
Should your pet become ill with the flu,treatment consists of supportive care until the pet's immune system can clear the virus. Dogs with compromised immune systems or concurrent health issues are definitely at risk for developing more serious disease than healthy pets. Most pets recover within two to three weeks. Confirmation of influenza can be accomplished through laboratory testing.