With the current scare of canine influenza going around, please make sure to seek out credible information yourself and don’t rely on others to educate you. Click the image above to be directed to the American Veterinary Medical Association’s page about canine influenza.
Here are some key points to take away from the article:
Canine influenza (CI, or dog flu) is caused by the canine influenza virus (CIV), an influenza A virus. It is highly contagious and easily spread from infected dogs to other dogs by direct contact, nasal secretions (through barking, coughing or sneezing), contaminated objects (kennel surfaces, food and water bowls, collars and leashes), and by people moving between infected and uninfected dogs.
Dogs infected with CIV develop a persistent cough and may develop a thick nasal discharge and fever (often 104-105oF).
Most dogs recover within 2-3 weeks.
The morbidity rate (the number of exposed animals that develop disease) associated with canine influenza is estimated at 80%. Deaths occur mainly in dogs with the severe form of disease; the mortality rate is low (less than 10%).
The canine influenza vaccine is a “lifestyle” vaccine, and is not recommended for every dog. In general, the vaccine is intended for the protection of dogs at risk for exposure to the canine influenza virus, which include those that either participate in activities with many other dogs or are housed in communal facilities, particularly where the virus is prevalent.
For a shortened Q&A style article visitthis AVMA article.