BY: SAMANTHA BARTLETT, DVM

The past few months have seen a rise in canine influenza cases in pockets throughout the United States. As in past outbreaks, affected dogs mostly show signs of coughing, and respiratory issues. Few cases, mostly in older or debilitated dogs, have lead to hospitalization or death. 

The virus is highly contagious and almost every dog that has exposure will become infected. Most notably, the virus is easily spread on fomites, making it particularly challenging to handle in a veterinary setting. 

There is a vaccine for two strains of canine influenza H3N2 and H3N8. Infected dogs should be isolated from other dogs until after their symptoms have subsided. If a known outbreak is in your area, avoid exposing your dog to other dogs outside of the household. This includes boarding and grooming facilities and dog parks. Summer travel holidays are a big concern as more dogs are boarded during this time leading to a potential for greater exposure and spread. 

The CDC has a fact sheet on canine influenza that can be accessed at https://www.cdc.gov/flu/other/canine-flu/keyfacts.html.