Just when we thought flu season was over, here we are fighting the influenza virus again. I'm not talking about the flu we humans battle every winter, but another kind of flu virus. Actually, I think it's worth mentioning a couple of other flu concerns.
A very serious outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza has appeared in the United States. Specifically, this disease has been found in migratory birds as well as commercial poultry flocks in several states, including Arkansas. It appears the virus first appeared in Canada, and birds within migratory flyways of North America carried it into our country. While this disease poses no health risk to humans, it is one of the greatest risks to the poultry industry.
What can we do to help eliminate this disease outbreak? First, realize this virus is spread by migrating water fowl, so be certain to clean your shoes and clothing if you happen to be around any birds. Good sanitation and biosecurity practices are particularly important if you are in contact with a commercial poultry operation. Second, if you have a hobby or backyard flock, pen them in a secure area to prevent exposure to any wild birds. Finally, don't use surface water (ponds and lakes) as water sources for your flock. The USDA and affected states' animal regulatory agencies have enacted emergency programs to identify and eradicate avian influenza from our country.
A strain of influenza virus that infects dogs has also hit the United States. Several years ago, canine flu cases were seen in several states, including Arkansas. The outbreak happening now has been limited to the Chicago area, and is caused by an entirely different strain of the influenza virus. Canine flu symptoms are similar to those seen with infectious bronchitis (kennel cough). Infected dogs run a fever, become lethargic, develop a persistent cough, and may have ocular drainage and thick nasal discharge. While most dogs exposed become ill, the number of cases resulting in death is very low. The canine influenza vaccine available now was made to prevent disease from the influenza virus of 2004. Unfortunately, it doesn't completely protect dogs from the current outbreak. Some experts believe vaccinated dogs are recovering more rapidly and showing less severe symptoms. I suggest vaccinating your dog against canine influenza only if you're planning to travel with your pet and they're likely to come in contact with other dogs.
These two diseases are serious concerns for animals throughout our country. Highly pathogenic avian influenza costs millions and shuts down foreign markets for our nation's poultry industry. Canine influenza is an emerging threat for our pets that we must be aware of.
Responding to these diseases rapidly is important, but good hygiene and sanitation practices are essential to prevent further spread of the flu in our dogs and poultry.
-- Dr. Richard McCarver is a veterinarian at Siloam Springs Veterinary Clinic. The opinions expressed are those of the author.
General News on 04/22/2015