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New York Dog Tests Positive for H1N1

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  • New York Dog Tests Positive for H1N1

    Source: http://www.veterinarypracticenews.co...-for-h1n1.aspx

    New York Dog Tests Positive for H1N1
    Posted: Monday, Dec. 21, 2009, 6:24 p.m., EST

    New York Dog Tests Positive for H1N1A 13-year-old male mixed-breed dog has tested positive for the 2009 H1N1 influenza virus, the first known reported U.S. case, according to Idexx Reference Laboratories. The Westbrook, Maine-based company, which recently launched its H1N1 Influenza Virus RealPCR Test, made the announcement on Dec. 21.

    The canine sample was submitted to Idexx by the Katonah Bedford Veterinary Center in Bedford Hills, N.Y., earlier this month. The sample tested positive for H1N1. The result was later independently verified by Iowa State University Veterinary Diagnostics Laboratory.

    The dog had been taken to the veterinarian after not feeling well for several days. He was treated with antibiotics and anti-inflammatories with no improvement in condition. The dog was then taken to an emergency veterinarian at Katonah Bedford Veterinary Center on Dec. 13 presenting with lethargy, lack of appetite, dry cough and a fever of 103.6?F. During the exam, the owner reported that he had tested positive earlier in the week for the H1N1 influenza virus.

    After 48 hours of hospitalization and supportive care, the dog improved and was sent home, where he is reportedly recovering well.

    To date, H1N1 has also been detected in cats, ferrets, pigs, birds and humans. So far, pets are believed to have contracted the virus from their owners.

    ?There have been a number of apparent reverse zoonosis cases in companion animals whose owners were also infected with the virus,? said Jane Robertson, DVM, Dipl. ACVIM, head of internal medicine at Idexx Reference Laboratories. ?While there is no evidence these pets spread H1N1 to other animals or to people, this new case confirms the ability of the virus to infect multiple species including dogs.?

    The American Veterinary Medical Association urges pet owners to monitor their pets? health very closely, no matter what type of animal, and visit a veterinarian if there are any signs of illness.

  • #2
    Re: New York Dog Tests Positive for H1N1

    H1N1 Influenza Virus Infection
    13-year-old neutered male mixed-breed dog

    History and Clinical Presentation

    The 13-year-old neutered male mixed-breed dog was taken in on emergency to the Katonah Bedford Veterinary Center in Bedford Hills, New York, on Sunday, December 13, 2009. Two days prior, he was seen by his regular veterinarian after several days of not feeling well. The patient was placed on antibiotics and anti-inflammatories with no response. On presentation to the emergency veterinarian, the dog had dry cough, was reported to be lethargic and not eating; he was also febrile with a temperature of 103.6?F. The owner reported that he himself had tested positive earlier in the week for the H1N1 influenza virus.


    Diagnostic Testing
    The veterinarian informed the owner that there was an H1N1 influenza virus test available through IDEXX Reference Laboratories. The owner agreed to have the test run.

    Thoracic radiographs were taken and revealed evidence of pneumonia with consolidation of the right cranial and middle lung lobes and prominent air bronchograms.

    A tracheal wash was performed and submitted for culture and sensitivity and cytology.


    Treatment
    The dog was hospitalized, placed on intravenous fluids and antibiotics.

    In addition, the dog received saline nebulization and coupage four times daily.

    The dog improved with treatment and was released after 48 hours of hospitalization and supportive care.


    Laboratory Results
    Culture and sensitivity results from the tracheal wash were negative.

    Cytology of fluid recovered from tracheal wash revealed chronic active inflammation with the presence of degenerate neutrophils, and no organisms were seen.

    The H1N1 Influenza Virus RealPCR? Test result was positive. A complete Canine Respiratory RealPCR? Panel was then performed, and all other respiratory pathogens, including canine influenza virus (H3N8), were negative.


    Assessment
    Focal lung lobe consolidation can be a consequence of influenza infections; however, other possible etiologies need to be considered in this older dog. Therefore, it is unknown at this time if the H1N1 influenza virus infection is the primary cause of this dog?s illness; however, it is likely to have contributed to the dog?s clinical signs.


    Follow-up
    The dog is reported to be doing very well at home and is scheduled for a recheck visit with repeat thoracic radiographs this week.

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