An insidious respiratory disease is spreading across the heart of the United States, affecting hundreds of dogs. This mysterious infection, elusive to common treatments, poses new challenges for veterinarians and pet owners. Here's what we know at the moment.
Since the middle of last August the Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA) has recorded over 200 cases reported by veterinarians. The phenomenon is not confined to a single state, however: several cases have also been reported in Colorado, Illinois, New Hampshire e Snowfall.
What is this?
The disease, which presents symptoms similar to those of kennel cough (fever, lethargy, loss of appetite) is distinguished by its unusual duration, which lasts between six and eight weeks. Although rarely, the disease can progress to acute pneumonia and in some extreme cases has led to death.
The exact nature of the pathogen responsible for this dog epidemic remains a mystery. It is not clear whether all reported cases result from the same infectious agent, nor whether this is a virus or a bacterium.
Dog epidemic, we need to understand more
Oregon authorities noted that antibiotics appear to have limited effectiveness, raising the possibility that, if it were a bacterium, it could have mutated and resisted common antibiotics.
On the other hand Andrea Cantu-Schomus, director of communications for the ODA, explained to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) that “based on the epidemiology of the cases reported to date, it appears that the cases share a viral origin, but common respiratory diagnostic tests have shown largely negative.”
Respiratory infections in dogs can be caused by at least nine different bacteria and viruses.
Attention and caution, but don't panic
Dog owners may be rightly concerned about this new disease, but the ODA advises “caution rather than alarmism.” Most healthy, fully vaccinated dogs are experiencing mild symptoms and recovering well.
The ODA suggests that the best way to protect against a possible “candidemia” (sorry for the pun) is to avoid dog gatherings, such as parks, group training or boarding facilities. It is also recommended to keep dogs away from common water bowls in cafes, parks, shops or restaurants.
David Needle, veterinary pathologist at the University of New Hampshire, he revealed to CNN that he and his colleagues have been studying this strange respiratory infection for about a year. They are currently analyzing samples from across the country to determine whether these cases have the same origin.
If the disease is indeed caused by a pathogen, as Needle explained, it has likely been around for some time. The recent outbreak may be due to some sort of genetic mutation that increased the microbe's virulence among dogs.
In times of zoonosisIt's always good to be clear-headed.
