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The Canine Influenza Vaccine
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The canine influenza vaccine is a killed virus vaccine.
Recently flu vaccines are all over the news. One flu vaccine which you may have heard about is the Canine Influenza vaccine. A vaccine for Canine Influenza (H3N8) recently received licensure for use in dogs.
Canine influenza is a highly contagious respiratory disease of dogs. It was first discovered in racing greyhounds in Florida, but cases have since been reported in most of the United States.
Canine influenza can cause clinical signs of coughing, sneezing, and nasal discharge. Most affected dogs develop only minor respiratory disease and recover without complications, but occasionally canine influenza infection may lead to pneumonia which may be life-threatening.
The canine influenza virus is transmitted through close contact between dogs and is highly contagious. It is most likely to affect dogs in breeding facilities, kennels, or shelters. Dogs which have very minor contact with other dogs are unlikely to become infected. For the majority of dogs, vaccination is unnecessary.
The vaccine does not prevent infection, but it does limit the severity of disease as well as reduces viral shedding, making it harder for the infection to spread to other dogs.
If you have questions about whether or not your dog is a candidate for this vaccine please consult your veterinarian.
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