04/05/2023
New Caution: Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza in Dog (HPAI)
In late March 2023, the HPAI virus was found in a dog in Durham Region after it scavenged on a dead goose that also tested positive for the virus. It is still unclear whether the virus played a role in the dog's death. Dogs and cat are susceptible to HPAI after having direct contact with wildlife or consuming infected meat; however, there have been no reported cases of transmission from mammalian pets to humans. The signs of canine influenza infection include coughing, sneezing, nasal and ocular discharge, decreased appetite, and fever. Veterinary diagnostic laboratories can test for influenza in pets. Owners are encouraged to avoid direct and indirect contact with wildlife and prevent their dogs from having contact with animals and people infected with influenza.
The highly pathogenic Asian Strain of H5N1 avian influenza currently found in Asia, Africa and Europe can infect multiple species of domestic (chickens, turkeys, quails, guinea fowl, etc.) wild and pet birds. This virus has also been detected in mammalian species including humans, rats and mice, wea...
