Canine Influenza
Thoughts on the influenza outbreak…….
The recent outbreak of a new strain of canine influenza in the Chicago area is a concerning time for dog owners. Since dissemination of information is so rapid in today’s day and age, it is very important that veterinarians inform themselves properly so that they are ready to answer questions from a frightened public.
When a situation like this comes up, there are a few places that Dr. Tolle and I get valuable information. Because we are members of the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) and the Washington State Veterinary Medical Association (WSVMA), we receive email alerts with important information and resources. The WSVMA is particularly informative about local outbreaks of diseases. It is however, important for us to stay on top of contagious diseases in other parts of the country and even internationally.
Map showing location of cases of the new strand of canine influenza.
Pets (and their diseases) Travel
I am sure many of you are aware of the increase importation of dogs and cats into our area, especially from rescue groups. The first time I really dealt with this as a veterinarian was following Hurricane Katrina. We had a large influx of adopted dogs from the New Orleans area. It was a very joyful time for me to meet these wonderful dogs and their thrilled new owners. It was important that I brushed up on my knowledge of heartworm and other parasites seen frequently in the South but not in the Pacific Northwest. Since then we have seen many dogs adopted from Mexico, Taiwan, Guatemala, ect.
Share good information
Once we get information about an outbreak, we make sure to share this with our staff at our staff meetings. We help to provide them with appropriate recommendations and links for clients. Dr. Tolle and I also discuss and continue to monitor for the need for preventive measures such as vaccinations or recommendations for limiting exposure.
The current Canine Influenza outbreak
As for this new influenza outbreak, our hospital will be screening calls for flu-like symptoms and asking more detailed questions about travel history. We do have an isolation unit in our hospital with a separate entrance to prevent exposure to other patients. Please call us with any questions you have about this new strain of influenza. We will update our website as new information emerges. Hopefully, we will all be educated, prepared and never actually treat a case in the Poulsbo or Bainbridge Island area.
~~Dr. Lisa
Here are some helpful links from the AVMA:
Canine influenza: Pet Owners’ Guide
