Canine flu, which has spread across the United States since it was first detected in 2015, is rising rapidly with recent outbreaks reported in Oregon, Tampa, Oklahoma City, and Minnesota. At the same time, immunity is being hampered by a lack of vaccines.
What is Canine Flu
Canine flu, sometimes called dog flu, is a respiratory virus. Actually, there are two viruses. One has the catchy name of H3N8 virus, the other is the H3N2 virus.
To date there have been no reports of these dog viruses being transmitted to humans.
Both viruses originated in other animals and spread to dogs. The H3N8 strain originated over 40 years ago in horses. It was first detected in greyhounds in 2004. H3N2 began in birds and was first detected in an American dog in 2015.
How Canine Flu Spreads
Dogs are social animals. As pets, they form a strong bond with humans. However, they also connect with other dogs. That is why we have dog parks, doggy daycares, and dogs have play dates.
In addition, dogs can not be left alone when their owners are away for more than a day. As a result, many owners board them while on vacation.
All of the above make for social interactions that can spread canine flu. In addition, the infection can be spread through shared items such as food and drinking bowls, leashes, pet carriers, and bedding.
Even humans can spread the influenza between dogs.
Vaccine Shortage
About 80 percent of exposed dogs will contract canine flu, according to the American Kennel Club (AKC). However, the good news is that there are vaccines to treat the illness. The bad news is that there is not a lot available currently. That is due to supply chain problems.
The vaccine is administered in a series of two shoots given about two weeks apart.
Vaccine Market
The global pet care market, which focuses on food, toys, wearables and related items, is projected to grow from over $246 billion this year to almost $369 billion by 2030, according to Fortune Business Insights.
At the same time, the market for canine flu vaccines topped one billion dollars in 2020 and is expected to be over $1,663,000,000 by 2030. That is a compound annual growth rate of 5.2 percent, according to Verified Market Research.
Leaders in vaccine development and production are Merck Animal Health (MRK) and Zoetis, Inc. (ZTS) among others.
Signs Your Dog is Sick
Like the flu in humans, dog flu can be fatal. Most deaths occur among older dogs or those with complications from preexisting conditions.
The AKC reports symptoms of canine flu include:
Dry, hacking cough that can progress to a moist, congested cough.
Lack of appetite.
Lethargy.
Runny nose or eyes..
Fever (normal temperature is 101-102 degrees).
Sometimes vomiting.
Some untreated cases can lead to pneumonia. The AKC recommends seeking veterinary attention immediately.
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