Canine influenza confirmed in Lafayette

First reported at JConline.com

Canine influenza has reached Lafayette, according to the Purdue University's Pet Wellness Clinic.

Test results received Thursday confirmed five cases of the virus in dogs from the Lafayette area, said Purdue School of Veterinary Medicine spokesman Kevin Doerr.

The dogs were tested by the Indiana Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory after they showed signs of coughing, fever and loss of appetite in recent weeks. Some dogs were isolated, and all have since recovered and been released.

"These cases highlight the importance of dog owners following precautions," Doerr said in a press release. "Avoiding exposure is the best means of prevention. Dogs owners should currently avoid areas where canines congregate and watch their animals closely for signs of infection."

Purdue has taken several steps to mitigate any spread of the virus, including the cancellation of canine-related events at this weekend's Spring Fest.

The canceled events include blood-donor greyhounds, Purdue police's K-9 unit and a presentation on service dogs.

Following the confirmation, Shamrock Dog Park announced it has canceled its free play day scheduled for Saturday. The park will remain open for current members, but the park's board will not sell new memberships or week passes until further notice.

The virus has swept Chicago in recent weeks, sickening more than 1,000 dogs and killing five between January and March.

Indiana State Board of Animal Health spokeswoman Denise Derrer said the board has heard of about a dozen cases of the virus in Indiana dogs.

The board last week had asked veterinarians to informally notify the board of any cases they diagnose.

"But that's not an official count by any means," Derrer said, noting that the virus isn't considered "reportable," meaning that veterinarians aren't required to report canine influenza cases to the state.

Experts originally thought it to be the H3N8 dog flu virus already found in the United States. They now believe it is a new strain, H3N2, that likely originated in Asia and hasn't been seen before in the U.S.

Although a vaccine is available for the H3N8 virus, it's unclear yet whether it will ward off the H3N2 virus, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The virus is rarely fatal, but young and old canines can be especially at risk.

About canine influenza

What is it?

Canine influenza is a very contagious respiratory infection in dogs.

How is it transmitted?

The virus can be transmitted from dog to dog via the air (coughing or close proximity), by contaminated objects such as food bowls or toys, or by humans moving between infected and healthy dogs.

What are the symptoms?

The signs of this illness in dogs are coughing, runny nose and fever. A small portion of infected dogs can develop severe disease.

What should I do if my dog shows symptoms?

There is a vaccine available. Contact your vet for details. Treatment largely consists of supportive care including fluids and making the dog comfortable.

Is it fatal?

The percent of dogs with the disease that die is very small. Eighty percent of infected dogs will have a mild form of the virus.

Sources: Purdue University School of Veterinary Medicine, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Learn more

Steve Thompson, veterinarian and director of the Pet Wellness Clinic, will give a lecture on the virus during the Purdue University School of Veterinary Medicine's open house at noon Saturday in Lynn Hall, Room G167.