Alerts of a new strain of swine flu virus pandemic have dominated news stories since the first fatalities were reported in Mexico in late April 2009.
Many viruses are species specific, such as canine parvovirus, but the particular flu virus currently spreading around the world has been classified as Type A, which can occur in many species and is the most serious. The new strain is a unique variation of a H1N1 virus, which is a mix of animal and human versions. This can occur when an animal contracts two different viruses at the same time.
With this information, some dog owners are concerned about their pets. They want to know if canines can catch the flu virus or possibly transmit it to family members.
Unique Strain of Virus Combination
According to CNN’s chief medical correspondent, Dr. Sanjay Gupta, the flu virus that has sickened thousands of Mexicans and citizens in other parts of the world and caused over a hundred fatalities seems to uniquely combine two strains of swine flu, one strain of bird flu, and one strain of human flu. Originating as a respiratory illness in pigs, it seems to be contagious between humans.
No Evidence Dogs Can Catch Swine Flu
Even though Dr. Gupta states that there is no evidence that dogs can get swine flu and that there have been no reports of dogs spreading flu to humans, he cautions that there is still much to learn about this new strain of swine flu. He said that, according to scientific literature, the avian H5N1 flu infected cats and at least one dog in Thailand in the past, and in 2004, the equine H3 virus seemed to affect dogs. .
As the World Health Organization urges government to prepare for a swine flu pandemic, officials are addressing concerns that the virus could possibly mutate further and become transmissible to and from other hosts or become resistant to current anti viral drugs such as Tamiflu or Relenza. To complicate matters even more, the human body is likely to have little natural immunity against new strains.
How to Prevent the Spread of Swine Flu Virus
Until scientists and medical professionals can study the new strain of swine flu further, many questions will have no definite answer. The Centers for Disease Control currently advises everyone to cover their nose and mouth with a tissue when they cough or sneeze and dispose of the tissue in the trash, avoid close contact with sick people, wash hands often, and avoid touching the mouth, eyes, and nose. Avoiding unnecessary travel and social contact can also help to control the spread of this potentially deadly swine flu virus.
To stay current on this rapidly evolving situation, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
For more information on whether swine flu can be transmitted from dogs and cats to humans, see Can Dogs Catch Swine Flu?
Read about the New York dog diagnosed with swine flu in December 2009 at Dog With Swine Flu.
Sources:
CNNhealthcom, Paging Dr. Gupta
CDC Swine Flu
Joy Butler - Writer, retired lab tech, mom, and animal lover with over 20 years' experience rescuing, kenneling, training and showing dogs.
