How can I differentiate highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza virus infection from kennel cough or canine influenza?
Top A: A dog in the United States is very unlikely to become infected with H5N1 highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) virus, since the virus has not yet been detected in North America. Because there is very little information about H5N1 HPAI infection in dogs, it is also not possible to describe with certainty what clinical signs a dog might have if it becomes infected. Given this lack of information, professional experience suggests the course of disease would likely be similar to that described for experimental infections of cats with the avian influenza virus. If/when H5N1 HPAI virus is detected in the United States, it should be considered on the list of differential diagnoses for a dog exhibiting respiratory signs. Lacking a more complete description of typical clinical signs, differentiation from kennel cough or canine influenza would be difficult without laboratory confirmation.
Related Questions
- If a bird is suspected or confirmed to have highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza virus infection, is the staff that handled the bird at risk?
- How can I differentiate highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza virus infection from feline upper respiratory tract infection?
- What testing is available for highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza virus infection, and how reliable is it?
