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K-9 Influenza Virus Information & Recommendations
Introduction & BVH?s vaccine policy
Who should get the canine flu vaccine?
How is the Vaccine Administered? Is the flu the same as kennel cough? Vaccines can be separated into 2 groups, core vaccines which are recommended to all individuals and non core vaccines which may benefit certain individuals at risk for acquiring a disease. Rabies and Distemper combination vaccines are examples of core vaccines. Bordatella, Leptospirosis, & Feline Leukemia are examples of vaccines administered to at risk individuals in our area. Giardia, FIP, FIV, &
Canine influenza virus (H3N8) was first recognized at BVH during an outbreak in the winter of 2005-2006. Veterinarians were overwhelmed at that time with large numbers of susceptible dogs becoming infected with the flu virus. Many dogs became ill and some quite ill but few dogs died from the infection with proper treatment.
Though we have not seen a significant outbreak of recognized flu virus since that time it is believed that the virus has remained active in
The Canine Influenza Vaccine produced by Schering Plough Animal Health is considered a non-core vaccine meaning it is not recommended for all individuals. The primary risk factor for dogs acquiring the flu virus is being housed in an enclosed environment with lots of other dogs. Therefore animals who are housed in large facilities such as shelters are at greatest risk. Boarding and grooming facilities, dog shows, training classes, and doggie daycares are also a risk factor.
As new information about the vaccine and the virus? prevalence in our community emerges we expect that many boarding facilities will begin to require administration of the flu vaccine prior to your pet being housed there.
Therefore, we are currently recommending that if you plan to board your dog in a facility over the rapidly approaching holiday season that you consider having your dog receive the H3N8 canine influenza vaccine.back to index
The H3N8 Canine Influenza shot is a subcutaneous injection initial series of 2 shots separated by 2-4 weeks followed by annual boosters. Until we feel comfortable with the safety of this vaccine it will require 2 separate visits and will not be administered with other shots. Total cost for the series with 2 visits will be $102
Schering Plough has received conditional approval for their Influenza vaccine. Their studies were composed of 600 dogs and showed minimal reaction to the vaccine. Research done by BVH veterinarians has not indicated any increase in adverse events associated with this vaccine compared to others, as of now. We will continue to follow this topic closely and will update a protocol as new information becomes available.back to index
Vaccination with this product will not prevent your dog from being infected with canine H3N8 Influenza virus but much like the Bordatella vaccine, it will decrease the severity of clinical signs and decrease the period where your dog is shedding infectious particles that may get others sick.back to index The canine Influenza H3N8 virus is distinct from the viruses and bacteria that cause upper respiratory disease known as kennel cough, though very similar risk factors exist between the two. Mild cases of influenza may even be misdiagnosed as kennel cough as symptoms tend to be mild and disease is self limiting with natural recovery within 10-20 days after infection.back to index
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