Deadly Dog Flu Spreads

Jennifer Viegas, Discovery News
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Just last month, a vaccine was released for canine influenza. Dubovi said that, "in clinical trials, it reduces viral shedding and diminishes signs" of the illness. It's given in two doses, three weeks apart.

Dubovi would like to see "blanket vaccinations in affected areas, as it would be nice to get this virus out of the dog population."

The virus at present is more adapted to horses than to dogs, so wiping out the illness now would prevent future possible mutations within canines.

Since dogs are in regular contact with their owners and other people, the illness could potentially spread from dogs to humans in the future, he suggested, given that it has already jumped from one species of mammal to another.

More bad news appears to be on the horizon. Next month, Dubovi said he will announce the discovery of yet another new virus.

In the meantime, researchers continue to study why some viruses jump species, and what can be done to eradicate these illnesses.


Related Links:

Jennifer Viegas' Blog: Born Animal

Wide Angle: Swine Flu

Canine Influenza Fact Sheet

Cornell University's College of Veterinary Medicine

USDA Information on Canine Influenza Virus Vaccine


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