Dogs and Avian Influenza Virus (H5N1)
Author Information
Author(s): Giese Matthias, Harder Timm C., Teifke Jens P., Klopfleisch Robert, Breithaupt Angele, Mettenleiter Thomas C., Vahlenkamp Thomas W.
Primary Institution: Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany
Hypothesis
Can dogs be infected with the avian influenza virus (H5N1) and transmit it to other animals?
Conclusion
Dogs can be infected with HPAI virus (H5N1) but do not transmit it to other dogs or cats.
Supporting Evidence
- Dogs showed increased body temperatures and viral RNA in swabs but did not develop fatal disease.
- No infectious virus was isolated from the dogs.
- Contact dogs and cats did not show any clinical symptoms or test positive for the virus.
Takeaway
The study found that while dogs can get sick from a bird flu virus, they don't spread it to other dogs or cats.
Methodology
The study involved two groups of dogs and cats exposed to the H5N1 virus under controlled conditions, monitoring for symptoms and viral presence.
Limitations
The study was conducted with healthy animals, and results may not apply to dogs with concurrent infections or immune issues.
Participant Demographics
The study included 5 dogs (beagles, 10–12 weeks old) and 3 cats (8–10 months old).
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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