What is Canine Influenza?

Canine Influenza Virus (CIV) is a respiratory virus of dogs. It has been identified in several states, including Connecticut and New York. A relatively small number of cases have been reported in Hartford, New London and Fairfield counties.
Influenza virus was first identified as an infectious disease of dogs in 2004. The first isolation of the virus was done at the Animal Health Diagnostic Center at Cornell University involving racing greyhounds. Within a year of the discovery, CIV was found in pet dogs in Florida and in the New York City area. Since that time the virus has been found in different areas of the US. CIV continues to move slowly through the canine population. It is highly contagious. Risk factors for the infection are having dogs in closely confined conditions such as in boarding kennels, day care setting and animal rescue shelters. Animals being relocated from the rescue shelters seem to be a main source of the movement of the virus to new locations.

How do I know if my dog has CIV?

The clinical signs associated with the infection are indistinguishable from the traditionally defined “kennel cough”, now more appropriately referred to as acute respiratory disease. They include coughing, nasal discharge, fever and often inappetance. These symptoms are not unique to CIV, so it is important that the dog be thoroughly evaluated and tested. CIV infection compromises the normal defense mechanisms of the respiratory tract so that secondary bacterial infections (such as pneumonia) are common sequelae.

How is CIV diagnosed?

The diagnosis of CIV necessitates the identification of the virus in the acutely infected dog (via PCR testing) or demonstrating antibodies in the later stages of the clinical event (via serologic testing). Samples for PCR testing should be taken within 4 days of onset of clinical signs and the sample of choice is a nasal swab. For serologic testing, an acute and convalescent sample (10-14 days apart) are optimal, but in areas of low CIV prevalence, a single sample taken > 7 days after acute onset may be sufficient. Both PCR and serologic testing are performed by The Animal Health Diagnostic Center at Cornell University.

What is the prognosis for dogs with CIV?

Since CIV is a relatively new (novel) disease, few dogs have natural immunity built up to protect them. As a result, a high proportion of dogs exposed to the virus become infected; approximately 80 percent develop symptoms, while another 20 percent do not become ill. Fortunately, most dogs recover within two weeks without any further health complications. However, some dogs progress to pneumonia, which is usually due to secondary bacterial infections. This is frequently curable with appropriate medical care. Dogs are generally free of CIV by 7 days post onset of clinical signs. They may cough for several weeks beyond this, but they are not contagious at this time.

Is my dog at risk?

The risk of infection is increased by exposure to other dogs. Dog shows, dog parks, kennels, grooming salons, dog day care centers, or anywhere dogs gather increase risk of CIV infection. Risk also depends on the prevalence of the virus in the area in which the dog lives or travels.

How do I prevent CIV infection?

CIV is best prevented by avoiding unnecessary contact with other dogs, particularly if your dog is particularly young or old, or has a compromised immune system. A vaccine is now available, that is effective in preventing CIV-related symptoms.

Should my dog be vaccinated against CIV?

The vaccine should be considered for dogs whose lifestyle puts them at greater risk (see above). Due the contagiousness of this virus, some kennels and grooming salons now require this vaccination to prevent an outbreak. Aside from these situations, the decision to vaccinate should be discussed with your primary care veterinarian, taking into consideration your dog's risks and the CIV prevalence in the area in which you live or to which you will be traveling.

Can humans or other pets get CIV?

In spite of monitoring by the CDC, the transmission of CIV to humans or to pets has never been demonstrated scientifically.

For more information on Canine Influenza Virus, please go to: http://ahdc.vet.cornell.edu/news/civ.cfm
 

-Susan G. Hackner, BVSc, MRCVS, DACVIM, DACVECC Chief Medical Officer & Chief Operating Officer