Canine Influenza: Facts and Fiction

By: Dr. Jennifer Koehl, DVM

Influenza viruses are a specific class of virus with assortments of proteins on the surface. Canine influenza virus (H3N8) acts much like other influenza viruses in that it causes fever and respiratory disease. This influenza can mimic bordetellosis (aka Bordetella bronchiseptica infection, kennel cough, infectious tracheobronchitis). It is most common in groups of densely populated dogs, like seen in shelter situations, and was first recognized in a colony of racing greyhounds in Florida. The incubation period for development of disease is 2 to 5 days and the course of infection is between 2 to 4 weeks.

Because this is a relatively new disease, many dogs have little to no immunity to it. Therefore, infection rate is high with up to 80% of dogs developing clinical signs of disease. Some studies indicate 20-50% will naturally clear the infection without any signs of illness. Dogs with signs of infection may present to their veterinarian with fever, coughing, nasal discharge, and lethargy. A vast majority of infected dogs will recover with appropriate supportive treatment (antibiotics, nebulization, etc.). A small percentage (up to 20%) of dogs will get a secondary bacterial pneumonia and supportive care must be more aggressive. Most of these dogs will recover as long as they receive proper care. Dr. Melissa Kennedy, Clinical Virologist at the University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine, states the mortality rate is “less than 10%, probably less than 1%. Most infections are mild and self-limiting.” This information contradicts some news reports of 100% mortality....Canine Influenza will most likely spread to the remaining states in the years to come. Diagnosis may become easier but the treatment modalities are similar to those for moderate to severe infections with Bordetella or other respiratory pathogens. Awareness without panic and sensationalism is key. Vaccination is not widely accepted in the veterinary community at this time except in areas of crowded canine populations. Even in those situations, the efficacy of this vaccination remains to be proven. Read the entire article.

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