Influenza A Virus (H3N8) in Dogs with Respiratory Disease
Author Information
Author(s): Payungporn Sunchai, Crawford P. Cynda, Kouo Theodore S., Chen Li-mei, Pompey Justine, Castleman William L., Dubovi Edward J., Katz Jacqueline M., Donis Ruben O.
Primary Institution: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Hypothesis
Canine influenza virus subtype H3N8 is circulating in dogs and is not restricted to greyhounds.
Conclusion
The study confirmed the presence of influenza A virus subtype H3N8 in dogs, indicating that it is a significant respiratory pathogen affecting various dog breeds.
Supporting Evidence
- The virus was isolated from 7 dogs that died from respiratory disease.
- Serologic evidence indicated widespread infection among racing greyhounds in 9 states.
- The hemagglutinin of the virus contained 5 conserved amino acid differences from equine lineages.
Takeaway
This study found that a virus making dogs sick is spreading among them, not just in racing greyhounds but in other breeds too.
Methodology
Virologic investigation, serologic testing, and genetic analysis were performed on lung tissues from dogs that died of respiratory disease.
Limitations
The study primarily focused on a small sample of dogs that died, which may not represent all cases of canine influenza.
Participant Demographics
The study included 7 dogs, aged 3 months to 9 years, from various breeds.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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