Tuesday, June 30, 2009

Dog Influenza


Several years ago an influenza virus mysteriously jumped from horses to canines (or so the scientific community believes) It was just announced that there is a new outbreak of "dog flu". KCBS in Los Angeles stated that there are outbreaks in 30 states, most on the east coast.
But there is good news:


The first vaccine against canine influenza virus (CIV) has been announced following the grant a conditional product license by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), for use by veterinarians in the United States.
“Canine influenza is a highly contagious respiratory infection that has a significant impact on dogs housed in shelters, kennels and communal facilities,” said Cynda Crawford, D.V.M., Ph.D., University of Florida, Clinical Assistant Professor of Shelter Medicine. “The availability of a vaccine can help prevent the medical, financial and emotional costs associated with this new virus.”

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