Animal Health Alert
We have been notified by the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health that there are 2 diseases that are causing outbreaks in dogs in boarding facilities in Los Angeles County.
- Canine Influenza Virus H3N2
- Leptospirosis
Here is what you need to know about each disease:
Canine Influenza H3N2
Outbreak Information:
- Since July 31, 2021 a total of 10 confirmed cases, and 46 suspected cases of influenza in dogs have been reported in LA County. Most of the cases have been associated with staying in boarding kennels or dog day care settings. Two cats with respiratory signs at one kennel tested negative for the virus.
Symptoms:
- Coughing, sneezing, nasal discharge, difficulty breaking (dyspnea), and/or fever.
Contagious to Humans?
- CIV H3N2 is generally considered to be a non-zoonotic strain of influenza, because no human cases have been reported during various outbreaks in the United States.
How is it spread?
- CIV H3N2 is spread through direct contact between dogs, or through droplet spread and aerosolization when infected dogs are housed indoors together, especially in poorly ventilated spaces. It can also be spread between dogs on the hands and feet of caretakers.
Leptospirosis
The Leptospira serovar canicola is the likely cause of the leptospirosis outbreak.
Outbreak Information:
- Since April 16, 2021 a total of 51 confirmed cases, and 24 probable cases of leptospirosis in dogs have been reported in in LA County. Most of the cases have been associated with staying in boarding kennel or dog day care settings.
- Vaccination status was reported for 42 of the cases, and 40 (95%) of them had NOT been vaccinated against leptospirosis before their illness.
Symptoms:
- Clinical signs reported include polyuria, polydipsia, lethargy, and anorexia, with a number of dogs requiring hospitalization and IV fluid treatment.
Contagious to Humans?
- Leptospirosis is zoonotic. The bacteria can infect people when their eyes, nose or mouth or breaks in their skin are exposed to the urine of an infected animal, or to water or splashes of water contaminated with the urine of an infected animal. People should wear gloves when handling infected dogs and wash hands afterward. When cleaning a heavily contaminated environment, wear a mask, goggles, coveralls, and gloves.
How is it spread?
- Transmission of leptospirosis occurs via the urine of infected animals. Dogs may be exposed through direct contact with another infected dog. Indirect transmission is likely more common, however.3 Leptospira bacteria can live a long time in water or in damp environments, especially in areas that are protected from UV light or heavily shaded. Dogs become infected when they lick water contaminated by the urine of infected animals, or when they lick their own contaminated paws or fur.
Prevention
Vaccinate dogs for both leptospirosis and canine influenza H3N2 before they enter boarding kennels, dog day care, dog parks, or engage in dog group activities. These vaccinations are also advisable for dogs that may occasionally encounter other dogs or wildlife.
Isolation and Quarantine of affected dogs
Leptospirosis – Isolate infected dogs at home, away from other pets and people, until they have recovered and finished treatment, usually for about 2 weeks. Quarantine is not required for exposed dogs, but they should be monitored for clinical signs for 1-2 weeks.
Canine Influenza H3N2 – Since prolonged shedding of the virus has been documented, isolate affected dogs away from other pets, for 28 days. Quarantine exposed dogs for 14 days