Current outbreak status:
Canine Influenza H3N2:
• Over 800 reported confirmed and suspected cases and 7 reported deaths in LA County.
• 2 animal shelters affected.
• Spreading rapidly at pet boarding and daycare facilities located throughout the county.
• Some pets have been infected at dog parks, while on walks, and where they come near other dogs.
• Cases of CIV H3N2 are being reported in the surrounding counties as well.
For more information: http://publichealth.lacounty.gov/vet/InfluenzaCanineH3N2.ht
Leptospirosis:
• 150 reported confirmed and suspected cases and 6 reported deaths in LA County.
• Most cases associated with boarding, daycare, dog parks, primarily in West LA and Santa Monica area.
• Some cases associated with exposure on walks around the neighborhood.
For more information: http://publichealth.lacounty.gov/vet/Leptospirosis2021.htm
Steps to take:
• We anticipate a potential winter surge in both diseases because of increased use of pet boarding, dog sitting, daycare and grooming services during the holiday season.
• County shelters, City shelters, and non-profit groups will have vaccination clinics, but may not be able to meet the demand for vaccination to stop the outbreaks.
CIV H3N2:
o The most effective tool in stopping the spread of CIV H3N2 is to isolate sick or infected dogs. Sick dogs should be isolated for 28 days from the first day of illness.
o Dogs should be fully vaccinated against CIV H3N2 before they enter boarding kennels, dog day care, dog parks, or engage in dog group activities. This vaccine is also advisable for dogs that may occasionally encounter other dogs.
o Fully vaccinated = ≥14 days post-completion of the primary series.
o The H3N2 flu vaccination is designed to decrease the severity of clinical disease and viral shedding but does not prevent against infection. Therefore, herd immunity in the community is important for outbreak control.
Leptospirosis:
o The Leptospirosis vaccine is considered a core vaccine for dogs in Los Angeles County, however it is of particular importance that dogs are fully vaccinated against leptospirosis before they enter boarding kennels, dog day care, dog parks, or engage in dog group activities.
o Fully vaccinated = ≥14 days post-completion of the primary series.
Sincerely,
Dr. Kimberly Daffner
Owner/Medical Director
Family Pet Clinic of Redondo Beach
(310) 376-0072