Vaccination to Prevent Canine Influenza Approved

Posted by Martha Smith on July 1, 2009 // 2 Comments

A vaccination to prevent canine influenza has been given a one-year conditional license to address what the U.S. Department of Agriculture assesses as an emergency situation.

Testing of the vaccine indicates it can reduce the incidence and severity of lung lesions as well as the duration of coughing and viral shedding.

The Canine Influenza Virus, also called CIV, is thought to have mutated from an equine influenza. Since it is a new strain, all exposed dogs can become infected.

Fortunately, about half of infected dogs will clear the infection through the production of their own antibodies. Of those who do experience the flu-like symptoms of fever, cough and nasal discharge, a small percentage will develop pneumonia. The death rate from CIV complications is approximately 5 percent.

Greyhounds have experienced the most severe symptoms of this highly contagious virus. The first documented cases occurred among groups of Florida racing Greyhounds in 2003. However, researchers now believe CIV appeared as early as 1999.

Currently, cases have been reported in 30 states and the District of Columbia, occurring in animal shelters, humane societies, rescue groups, pet stores, boarding kennels and veterinary clinics.

The incubation period is two to five days after exposure, with peak viral shedding occurring two to four days after infection. Transmission occurs similarly to other respiratory diseases: direct contact, droplet, aerosol spread and through contaminated objects such as hands and clothing.  Some dog handlers have carried the virus home to their own pets.  At this time,  however, it is not believed that the virus can be transmitted to humans.

The vaccination license was awarded to Intervet/Shering-Plough Animal Health. The company spokesman, Dr. Christopher Pappas, advises that shipment to distributors began on June 25, so some veterinarian clinics have just started to receive the product. Other clinics may order it, normally with a 24-hour turnaround.

The product does not yet have a name. Inquiring pet owners may simply refer to it as the “canine influenza vaccination” or the “H3N8 vaccination.” Jennifer Neal, spokeswoman for Pets Best Insurance, advises that while vaccinations are normally covered by their BestWellness option, since this vaccination is so new, it has not been added to their wellness program as of this writing.

The vaccination is administered by two subcutaneous injections given two to four weeks apart to dogs 6 weeks old or older, with an annual revaccination recommended. According to Dr. Pappas, during the testing of 746 dogs representing 30 different breeds and ranging in age from 6 weeks to 10 years, no adverse effects were reported.

Besides having your dog vaccinated, you can help reduce the spread of CIV by avoiding dog parks or other community places if your pet has any symptoms. And, as always, ensure that your pet stays healthy with a strong immune system to fight this and other contagions to which he may be exposed.

Category : Natural Remedies &News