Parents know that bringing their child to a day care means that the threat of catching a cold or even worse, the flu, is a reality. But now people that bring their dogs to doggie day cares, should also be aware that a strain of dog flu really does exist and unfortunately, is beginning to spread.

Experts have confirmed that a Chicago outbreak of the dog flu is now beginning to spread throughout the Midwest. According to research from the University of Wisconsin and Cornell University, at least 1,000 dogs from Illinois, Wisconsin, Ohio and Indiana have been infected with a contagious strain of dog flu. Humans cannot get the dog flu, but they can spread the virus.

The dog flu virus has been identified as the H3N2 strain from Asia, but experts aren't sure how it was introduced into the United States. The strain is commonly found in Chinese and South Korean dogs.

Dog flu symptoms are similar to the flu symptoms that people experience, however not all infected dogs appear to be sick. Some dogs may get a cough, runny nose and a fever and experience a loss of appetite. In severe cases, the dog flu may lead to pneumonia or death.

Dog owners are being encouraged to get their dogs vaccinated and keep their four-legged family members away from other dogs that may have been exposed to the dog flu. Experts also recommend that dog owners wash their hands regularly before touching other dogs.

Sources: NBC News and Time

 

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