Flu-like Symptoms... Many Severe Cases
"Bulldogs, Pugs, and Other Brachycephalic Breeds More Vulnerable"
A new canine respiratory disease causing symptoms such as coughing and eye redness is rapidly increasing across the United States, prompting the veterinary community to investigate its cause.
According to NBC News on the 3rd (local time), a canine respiratory disease exhibiting symptoms similar to influenza (flu) has been on the rise in various parts of the United States. It is reported that many cases of this disease progress to severe conditions. Symptoms of this respiratory disease include coughing, sneezing, red or crusty eyes. By the 22nd of last month, over 200 infection cases had been reported in Oregon alone, with an estimated potential infection of thousands of dogs.
Dr. Michael Lappin, an infectious disease expert and director of the Companion Animal Research Center at Colorado State University's College of Veterinary Medicine, stated, "Cases of canine pneumonia in Colorado increased by 1.5 times from September to November this year compared to the same period last year."
Pet insurance company 'Trupanion' also reported, "Insurance claim data shows an increase in the number of dogs suffering from severe respiratory diseases across several states."
Dr. Deborah Silverstein, head of Emergency Medicine and Critical Care at the University of Pennsylvania, warned, "There is an increase in dogs simultaneously infected with multiple pathogens such as canine influenza, Bordetella, and Mycoplasma, leading to severe illness. This is similar to the triple epidemic of COVID-19, influenza, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) that affected humans last fall and winter."
Experts cite several reasons for the outbreak of this respiratory disease. They speculate that movement restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic, which limited exposure to viruses and bacteria, may have weakened dogs' immune systems. They also analyzed that a decrease in dog vaccination rates contributed to the situation.
The possibility of a new virus outbreak has also been raised. Researchers at the University of New Hampshire recently claimed this based on a small number of cases in New England, stating, "There is a need to investigate with more samples from more locations." Researchers from Oregon State University, Colorado State University, the University of Pennsylvania, and other regions are also conducting studies to identify the cause of the canine respiratory disease outbreak.
Another factor worsening the situation is that many pet owners cannot afford to take their sick dogs to animal hospitals or specialized centers or pay for diagnostic tests. Trupanion estimated that treatment costs for dogs in serious condition could reach up to $20,000 (approximately 26 million KRW).
Veterinarians advise that brachycephalic breeds such as Pugs and French Bulldogs, elderly dogs, and dogs with underlying lung diseases are at higher risk of infection. They recommend that if a pet dog shows symptoms such as difficulty breathing or refusal to eat, it should be taken to a veterinarian immediately.
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