MICHIGAN — The number of canine influenza confirmed cases in Michigan has risen to 49 since mid-July, reports WNDU.<br /><br />According to AVMA, dogs can get canine influenza after being exposed to the H3N8 or H3N2 virus.<br /><br />It is a respiratory infection which can be caused by sniffing or licking dogs who have the virus or by sharing food and water with those dogs.<br /><br />Sick dogs who are coughing or sneezing may also pass on the virus to healthy dogs.<br /><br />Dogs may also be exposed to the virus by humans whose clothings or skin have been contaminated with the it.<br /><br />Michigan Department of Agriculture & Rural Development mentioned in a news release, symptoms may include fever, discharge from the eyes or nose, and coughing along with lethargic behavior."<br /><br />However, canine influenza can also be prevented with a vaccine.<br /><br />James Averill, Michigan's state veterinarian, told Michigan Live, "It's important that dog owners work with their veterinarians to protect their dogs."
