Researchers Estimate Deaths From Canine Flu Virus Could Be as High as One in Ten Infected Dogs
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To help combat the spread of the virus and aid veterinarians in identifying the presence of canine influenza in dogs, GENESENTINEL(TM) applies precise DNA testing technology to quickly and accurately detect this highly contagious pathogen
SAN DIEGO, Nov. 29 /PRNewswire/ -- GENESENTINEL today announced the launch of a highly accurate test to detect the highly contagious influenza virus that is affecting dogs and is believed likely to spread throughout the USA. The GENESENTINEL diagnostic technology is similar to that used to detect the avian flu and SARS in humans.
Canine influenza produces flu-like symptoms, including sneezing, coughing, and very high fevers. Infected dogs require immediate veterinary attention. Nearly 100 percent of dogs that are exposed to the virus become infected, regardless of age or vaccination history.
Simon Brodie, CEO of GENESENTINEL, states, "As of today, canine influenza has been diagnosed in 18 states, although we presume it is present in many more states. Early numbers suggest that one in one hundred infected dogs will die. However, some researchers have placed the figure as high as one in ten, and the number could be higher due to misdiagnosis of the virus as 'kennel cough.' Symptoms generally appear two to five days after a dog is exposed to the virus and of those infected, 20 percent show no signs of disease. Early diagnosis using our GENESENTINEL test is critical in order to quarantine and treat the infected dog. There is no vaccination available at this time."
Dr. Joan McMindes of the Native Palm Animal Hospital in Jupiter, Florida has firsthand experience with this new virus. Dr. McMindes states, "We have had a number of suspected cases of canine flu, and have seen otherwise healthy dogs from boarding kennels and doggie day care centers developing pneumonia that doesn't respond to the usual treatments. Pet owners are concerned."
One kennel in New York was forced to close for three weeks, after more than 200 dogs began showing signs of the canine influenza virus, resulting in the death of two dogs. Like other forms of the flu, the canine flu is spread though the air and by physical contact. Dogs are particularly susceptible to contracting the virus in gathering places such as shelters, kennels, boarding places, parks, racetracks and dog shows.
Brodie continues, "With the holiday season approaching and an increased demand for boarding, we are encouraging kennels to test every dog before admittance and our website will begin to list all boarding facilities where the GENESENTINEL test is routinely performed."
GENESENTINEL is the first company to commercialize a highly accurate molecular diagnostic for the canine flu that can provide rapid results to veterinarians. Positive results of the screening test are considered a presumptive identification of canine influenza. GENESENTINEL allows veterinarians to screen dogs with a range of flu-like symptoms at an affordable cost to the pet owner.
About GENESENTINEL (TM)
GENESENTINEL is a subsidiary of ALLERCA(TM) Inc., a privately-held biotechnology company headquartered in San Diego, California, focused on improving the lives of companion animals and their owners. Read more at http://www.genesentinel.com/
