Influenza Update 12/2/2009

The Influenza A (H1N1) virus has been receiving a lot of attention lately. Erroneously referred to as swine flu, it is a form of influenza that is highly contagious between people at risk. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) have named it Influenza A (H1N1) because of the structure of the virus. It is a new virus that was derived from a swine influenza virus and an avian influenza virus.

There have been a number of isolated cases of animals getting the H1N1 flu, generally with the history including exposure to a person showing flu-like symptoms (or confirmed to have had H1N1). These reports include a pig at the Minnesota State Fair, turkeys in flocks in Virginia, Chile and Canada, a ferret in Nebraska, cats in Iowa Utah and Oregon and a swine herd in Finland (in which 800 of 950 pigs contracted the disease, and all 800 got better in 1-2 days). All of the animals except for one cat survived the illness, and there was no evidence that any of the animals transmitted the disease to humans. There is also no evidence that pork or turkey meat can transmit the virus to humans. If you or family members develop signs of H1N1 flu, we recommend that you minimize your pets’ exposure to the ill person.  For further information, go to: AVMA-H1N1 Flu Virus Please do not hesitate to call us with questions at 651-748-1900.

Canine Influenza (H3N8)

Canine Influenza (CIV) is another Influenza A virus that is structurally different from the H1N1 Influenza A virus. It was originally reported in racing greyhound kennels and dog shelters in Florida, and has been reported in 30 states. It has not yet been reported in Minnesota. Dogs at risk are those in high density communal living situations, including kennels and shelters. There is no evidence that humans can contract CIV from dogs. Silver Lake Animal Hospital is not currently recommending CIV vaccination for our patients. As always, good hygiene reduces the potential for transmission of this virus. For further information, go to: AVMA-Canine Influenza Please do not hesitate to call us with questions at 651-748-1900.