I'm sure some of you have been hearing news reports about canine influenza. Some have been grossly sensationalized ("KILLER DOG FLU!"). Since the first reports of it in 2002 it's been found in about 30 states but has only been commonly seen in Colorado, Florida, New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania. It was reported in Iowa a few years ago at a dog track. In checking with the State Veterinarian's office and the Iowa Veterinary Medical Association I haven't been able verify any other cases. It is considered an "emerging virus" however which means there's good chance that we'll see here eventually.
Canine Influenza is caused by the Influenza Type A , subtype H3N8 virus. Sympoms are much like human flu viruses: cough, fever, lethargy, nasal discharge, and lack of appetite. Symptoms can be similar to "kennel cough" and it is spread the same way-by aerosal tranmission or contact with contaminated objects such as food bowls etc. The percentage of dogs exposed to it that become infected with it (morbidity rate) 80%. The mortality rate is 1 to 5%. The most common risk senario would be dogs that go to boarding/grooming facilities, dog parks, and retail pet stores that allow dogs in the store.
There is a vaccine available (Schering/Plough). It requires 2 doses spread 3 weeks apart and then annual boosters. I plan to have some of the vaccine on hand for those who want to vaccinate their dogs in anticipation of an outbreak but I'm not recommending widespread vaccinations unless I hear of outbreaks closer to home. I'll keep you posted.
If you'd like more information on H3N8 like what the H and the N stand for or how many nanometers wide the virus is the best website I've found is
http://www.avma.org/public_health/influenza/canine_bgnd.asp.
