Family Pet Animal Hospital Statement on Infectious Tracheobronchitis Outbreak & the Canine Influenza Vaccine
This is an addendum/update to our statement from 3/27/15.
We are unable to say for certain that all the cases we are seeing are due to the canine influenza virus (CIV). We are currently participating in a study to determine the cause or causes. To date, we have sent out close to 30 tests, most of which are still pending results. We have not yet had any confirmed as canine influenza. Likely, there are multiple agents responsible for the multitudes of cases of “kennel cough” that we are witnessing. However, Merck Animal Health reported to us on 3/30/15, of 43 samples from the Chicagoland area (not from Family Pet patients), 32 were confirmed as canine influenza.
We currently have a limited supply of the canine influenza vaccine. The vaccine, like ANY other flu vaccine, may not work against this particular strain of the virus. Additionally, the vaccination protocol requires a series of two vaccines, given two to four weeks apart. Therefore, any protection offered would not begin until at least a month after starting the vaccine series.
These factors, along with the fact that we have no idea how long the current outbreak will last, getting your dog vaccinated now may or may not be effective.
We, of course, are strongly recommending keeping your dog away from other dogs during this time to minimize chances of exposure (daycare, boarding, grooming, pet stores, etc.). Family Pet Animal Hospital also believes in the judicious use of vaccines and is therefore not recommending the vaccine for all dogs. However, given all the factors mentioned, if you feel your dog is at high risk, you should consider having your dog vaccinated against the canine influenza virus.