next »

[Louise]

https://www.facebook.com/#!/notes/busan-abandoned-pet-sanctuary/important-dog-health-warning/10150333151339917
This virus is currently spreading throughout the Korean Peninsula, and can have fatal consequences.  Vaccinations are available, but not routinely given by vets.

 

CANINE INFLUENZA

 

1.Etiology and Epidemiology

-The Canine influenza virus is H3N2, has mutated from Avian influenza. This virus is different from the Canine influenza outbreaking in USA, which has genetic links to the Equine influenza virus H3N8.

-Route of infection is via direct contact with infected dog or contaminated surfaces. Airborne virus particles can spread through sneezing or coughing. People who had contact with infected dogs can transmit the virus, too.

-The Incubation period is  2~4days, and this is the most active time for the virus to replicate and shed. After that time, clinical signs start to show. Virus shedding continues for 7~10 days more after the incubation period.

-The Virus can survive in the environment up to 48 hours, 24 hours on clothes, and 12 hours on hands.

-This virus can inactivated by alcohol, bleach.

-Morbidity rate is 100%, attack rate is 80%.

 

2.Clinical signs

-Fever, coughing, sneezing, nasal discharges, ocular discharges.

-Signs are showing acutely.

-In more severe form of the disease, fever, increaded respiration rate, difficult breathing, hemoptysis, and hemorrhagic pneumonia can occur.

-Death rate is 5~75%.

 

3.Diagnosis

-By kit. Sometimes PCR or ELISA is needed.

 

4.Treatment

-There is no medicine against this virus. Use broad spectrum antibiotics to prevent secondary bacterial infections. Symptomatic treatment is required.


5.Prevention

-Use disinfectant.

-Isolate infected dogs.

-Try not to go public places like parks.

-Wash your hands, change your clothes as soon as you get home.

Thanks to Dr. Seo Mina, DVM.