What is canine influenza H3N8?

A: Canine influenza (CI), or dog flu, is a highly contagious respiratory infection of dogs that is caused by an influenza A virus. In the U.S., canine influenza has been caused by two influenza strains. The first strain reported in the United States, beginning in 2004, was an H3N8 influenza A virus.

Should I vaccinate my dog for canine influenza?

Vaccination can reduce the risk of a dog contracting canine influenza. Vaccination may not all together prevent an infection, but it may reduce the severity and duration of clinical illness. The canine influenza vaccine is a “lifestyle” vaccine, and is not recommended for every dog.

Is there a dog flu going around 2021?

A canine influenza outbreak in Los Angeles is drawing up concern among pet owners on the West Coast. According to data published by the County of Los Angeles Public Health from July 2021 to October 2021, the dog flu – also known as CIV H3N2 – had been detected in approximately 800 canines in Los Angeles County.

What is H3N2 and H3N8?

Canine influenza (also known as dog flu) is a contagious respiratory disease in dogs caused by specific Type A influenza viruses known to infect dogs. There are two different influenza A dog flu viruses: one is an H3N8 virus and the other is an H3N2 virus.

What do I do if my dog has Covid?

If you are sick with COVID-19 and your pet becomes sick, do not take your pet to the veterinary clinic yourself. Call your veterinarian and let them know you are sick with COVID-19. Some veterinarians may offer telemedicine consultations or other plans for treating sick pets.

Can humans get canine influenza?

In general, canine influenza viruses are thought to pose a low threat to people. To date, there is no evidence of spread of canine influenza viruses from dogs to people and there has not been a single reported case of human infection with a canine influenza virus in the U.S. or worldwide.

How much is a dog influenza shot?

Made by both Merck Animal Health and Zoetis, the initial doses are two shots, several weeks apart. If full licensing is granted next year, an annual booster will be recommended. A Zoetis spokeswoman said the price, set by individual veterinarians, will most likely be $25 to $35 for each injection.

What is H3N2 dog?

The canine influenza virus H3N2 (CIV H3N2) usually causes mild to moderate disease in dogs and on rare occasions can also infect cats. This strain of canine influenza was first found in the US in 2015 when it was detected in Chicago and spread to other parts of the country.

Does the dog flu vaccine require a booster?

Proper vaccination with both strains of the Canine Influenza Virus (CIV) vaccine will require two initial sets of injections given two to four weeks apart, followed by a yearly booster.