One week ago, I posted a story about a dog flu outbreak in Chicago. Vets have now identified the flu strain and say it has never before been seen in the US. It came to us from Korea and China, according to reporting from NBC News’ Chicago affiliate.
The flu, which is much worse than vets originally thought, spreads easily and can even spread from dogs to cats. The virus lives on clothing an other soft surfaces for up to 24 hours, and on hard surfaces for up to 48 hours. Chicago vets are trying to contain the virus there, but fear it may spread throughout the United States.
More than 1,000 cases have been diagnosed, and at least 5 dogs have died from this virus. The best advice? Ask your vet about vaccinating your dog (and maybe even your cats.)
Until next time,
Good day, and good dog!
Hi Beth! I live in San Jose, CA. I called my vet, and they said there is no vaccination for this flu virus. Their advice was to monitor my dog and check if he starts having any respiratory symptoms – difficulty breathing, coughing a lot, sneezing a lot, etc. I hope this helps people. On the local news out here, they are advising people to keep their dogs away from dog parks and any place where a lot of dogs congregate – until this thing is over.
Thanks Beth!