Influenza

Lately I have noticed a strange Influenza-like illness spike in our clients and co-workers so I thought I would use this space to address the flu in our pets.  In April of 2009 a new strain of the Influenza virus was discovered in people- we now call it the H1N1 strain (some call it swine flu).
All of this information was taken from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention website:
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/qa.htm#f

What animals can be infected with the 2009 H1N1 virus?

In addition to humans, live swine and turkeys, a small number of ferrets (which are highly susceptible to influenza A viruses),  domestic cats and dogs have been infected with 2009 H1N1 virus.  

How do pets become infected with 2009 H1N1?

All available information suggests it is spread through close contact with ill humans. 

Can I get 2009 H1N1 influenza from my pet?

Available evidence suggests that transmission has been from ill humans to their companion animals. No evidence is available to suggest that animals are infecting humans with 2009 H1N1 virus.

What do I do if I am sick with flu-like symptoms and I have pets?

If you are sick with influenza-like-illness, take the same precautions with your pets that you would to keep your family and friends healthy:

• Cover your coughs and sneezes
• Wash your hands frequently
• Minimize contact with your pets until 24 hours after your fever is gone without the use of fever reducing medication

What should I do if I suspect my pet has 2009 H1N1 influenza virus?

If members of your household have flu-like symptoms, and your pet exhibits respiratory illness, contact your veterinarian. 

Is there a vaccine available for my pet?

Currently, there is not a licensed and approved 2009 H1N1 vaccine for pets. (There is a canine influenza vaccine, which protects dogs from the H3N8 canine flu virus, but it will not protect pets against the 2009 H1N1 virus, and the H3N8 vaccine should not be used in any species other than dogs.)  We DO have the H3N8 vaccination in the clinic if any clients are traveling to the southern states where it is more prevalent.

How serious is this disease in pets?

Pet ferrets with naturally occurring 2009 H1N1 infection have exhibited illness similar in severity to that seen in ferrets exposed to seasonal influenza viruses and to 2009 H1N1 virus in laboratory settings.  Clinical signs exhibited have included sneezing, inactivity, and weight loss.  Of the reported cases, most of the pets have recovered fully with supportive care, although some have died.