The MSU VDL has added a separate test code for Canine Influenza Virus PCR (80138) to make it easier to request influenza testing for dogs. This test detects all Type A influenza viruses but does not differentiate between H3N8 and H3N2 subtypes. Based on current data available, positive samples are almost always H3N2 at this point. Please see our test catalog for more information regarding collection protocol, pricing, and shipping requirements or call us at 517.353.1683 with other questions.

Canine influenza activity in Michigan has slowed down since a number of cases were reported over a short period of time this summer. According to the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD), a total of 160 cases have been confirmed in Michigan as of October 3, 2018. Updated information regarding the current case count is available on MDARD's Animal Health & Care site. Canine influenza is a reportable disease in Michigan, which means veterinarians and diagnostic labs must notify MDARD if they suspect canine influenza or have a positive test. If a registered animal shelter suspects canine influenza, MDARD is prepared to assist them.

The MSU VDL and other laboratories are voluntarily contributing testing information to provide a more complete picture of H3N2 canine influenza activity nationwide. This information is available through the Cornell University Animal Health Diagnostic Center.

Because signs of many infectious respiratory diseases are similar, differential diagnostic testing is needed to identify the specific cause of illness. We encourage clients to consider our canine respiratory disease panel (80984) or the core panel plus (80985) if distemper is also suspected. If influenza is part of a differential diagnosis, the influenza PCR can be performed in addition to the panel for an additional charge.

Dogs can shed viral and bacterial pathogens that cause infectious respiratory diseases during the incubation stage before showing any clinical signs. Testing within the first few days of illness is very important because this shedding is rather limited in duration.

Vaccines are available for both H3N8 and H3N2 CIV. Veterinarians and pet owners are encouraged to include travel and pets' exposures to other settings where animals comingle in their conversations about which vaccinations are appropriate. For those wishing to reduce the number of vaccinations where possible, vaccine titer screening (canine vaccine antibody panel, 80101 andcanine vaccine panel + lepto, 95996) is available for assessing immunity status in previously vaccinated animals. These panels include canine distemper, canine adenovirus, and canine parvovirus.

We have also developed a guide to help clinicians educate pet owners about canine influenza. Canine Influenza: Answers for Pet Owners addresses frequently asked questions and can be printed for use in clinics. Contact us to request printed copies.

For additional information, please see the resources below:

Canine Influenza FAQ (AVMA)
Canine Influenza Reference for Veterinarians (AVMA)
Canine Influenza: Pet Owners' Guide (AVMA)