H3N8 "Dog Flu" Spreads Across Thirty (30) States

If it is not the regular flu, the bird flu (H5N1) or the "swine flu" (H1N1), then it's some other novel flu. The novel flu of the day is the H3N8 virus also called the "dog flu" or the "canine flu." This dog flu is spreading like wildfire across the Nation.

Less publicized is the recent increase in cases of the H3N8 Canine Influenza Virus (CIV) which was first discovered in 2004 and is highly contagious to dogs. It is an adaptation on the equine version of the virus which has been in existence for over 40 years.

According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), the first outbreak of CIV was found in racing greyhounds in Florida. Over the last five years it has since been documented in 30 states. The virus is spread much like any other which means it can be airborne and can also be transmitted on contaminated surfaces such as water bowls, leashes and toys or carried by owners. It can remain on surfaces for up to 48 hours, 24 hours on clothing and 12 hours on hands. To date there has been no indication that it can be transmitted to humans.

Source: Honolulu Pet Examiner