Update: Canine Influenza Virus

"Canine Influenza virues was first identified in the canine population in 2004 and appears to have arisen on dog tracks in the United States. This virus has now been detected in both the racing Greyhound and pet dog population in the Unitd States. There have been confirmed cases in NY and NJ.

Canine influenza presents in a manner similiar to kennel cough and the two may be difficult to differentiate. Symptoms include coughing and gaging. Other symptoms may include fever, inceased respiratory rates and nasal discharge. Secondary bacterial infection is common and pneumonia may develop. Most affected dogs appear to recover with antibiotic therapy but death rates are estimated between 1 and 10%.

The incubation period is 2-5 days and all dogs should be considered susceptible to infection as this is a new virus and is not likely that dogs will have protection from previous exposure.

If you suspect that your dog has or has been exposed to this virus please bring him/her to your veterinarian as soon as possible."