- The best protection is vaccination. There is now a single vaccination for both the H3N2 and H3N8 strains of the virus. The vaccination requires a booster shot two-three weeks after the initial vaccine. Vaccination provides the best chance of immunity within 7-14 days of booster shot.
As always, dogs must be current on their DHPP and Rabies vaccination.
Thank you Dr. Becky Malphus for this update.
American Kennel Club:
There are recently confirmed cases of the Canine Influenza Virus (H3N2 strain) that was first brought to and identified in Chicago, Illinois in the spring of 2015. The most recent outbreaks concern the following states: Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Kentucky, Missouri, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Texas.
For More Information:
American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) : Canine Influenza FAQ
According to the AVMA vaccines are available for both the H3N8 and H3N2 strains of canine influenza virus. The strain causing the 2015 outbreak was almost genetically identical to an H3N2 strain previously reported only in Asia – specifically, Korea, China and Thailand.