Canine Influenza Vaccine UPDATE

Submitted by Veterinary Wellness Partners
on Fri, 10/27/2017 - 2:51pm

October 25, 2017

The new strain of Canine Influenza Virus (CIV H3N2) that emerged in 30 states earlier this year has recently been reported in Columbus and Toledo. With this new information, the veterinarians and owners of Orrville Veterinary Clinic, Akron Barberton Veterinary Clinic, Seville Wadsworth Veterinary Clinic, and Orrville Pet Spa & Resort strongly recommend proper immunization against CIV H3N2 as well as prevention to control this disease. In order to provide the best protection and care for dogs, a primary and booster vaccination are administered two to four weeks apart. The H3N2 vaccine is boostered annually to protect against this newer strain. In the past, we have protected dogs against a different influenza strain (H3N8), which hasn't caused an outbreak in several years.

This highly contagious virus is spread by direct contact (sniffing, licking or nuzzling) with infected dogs, through the air (coughing, sneezing or barking), and by contact with infected objects such as dog bowls, toys, and clothing. The virus remains contagious in the environment for 48 hours. Clinical signs of this disease include coughing, discharge from eyes and nose, loss of appetite, and lack of energy. Owners whose dogs are showing any of these signs should not participate in activities or take their dogs to facilities where other dogs can be exposed to the virus.

Please contact any of our veterinary clinics (orrvillevetclinic.com) to schedule an appointment to protect your dog against CIV H3N2.