FLORHAM PARK, N.J. – Nov. 13, 2015 – Zoetis Inc. today announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has granted the company a conditional license to market Canine Influenza Vaccine, H3N2, Killed Virus, the first commercially licensed vaccine to help control disease associated with canine influenza virus H3N2 (CIV H3N2).
The first U.S. cases of CIV H3N2, a severe and highly contagious respiratory disease affecting dogs, were detected in Chicago, Illinois, in March 2015. Since then, there have been reports of the virus in 25 states1 and the outbreak continues to spread. Because CIV H3N2 can be difficult to diagnose and in severe instances may be fatal, effective prevention is critical.
"Following the initial outbreak of CIV H3N2 in Chicago, Zoetis researchers immediately prioritized development of a vaccine. Given the urgency associated with emerging infectious disease, it is always our goal to respond as quickly as possible with effective solutions," said Shelley Stanford, DVM, Group Director, Companion Animal Division Veterinary Professional Services, Zoetis. "We are very proud that we had the capability to address the pressing need for a vaccine to help control the spread of CIV H3N2 in just seven months."
The new, killed virus vaccine will be administered in two doses, three weeks apart, to healthy dogs, eight weeks of age or older. Annual re-vaccination is recommended for maximum protection. Zoetis expects to begin selling the vaccine to customers within the next several weeks.
About Canine Influenza
There are two prevalent types of canine influenza virus in the United States: CIV H3N8 and now, CIV H3N2. For the past several years, vaccines, including Zoetis Vanguard® CIV (H3N8), have been used to help control disease associated with CIV H3N8. Moving forward, dogs will need vaccinations against both virus types to help provide complete protection.
Most commonly, canine influenza virus is spread through direct contact with respiratory secretions from infected dogs. It can also be spread when dogs come into contact with contaminated objects (toys, clothing, communal water bowls, etc.). After a dog is infected there will be a pre-clinical phase during which the dog still appears healthy but is capable of spreading the virus to other dogs and into the environment. The severity of the infection varies; in some cases it can cause severe pneumonia and even death.
The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) cautions that dogs that are frequently in contact with other dogs are at especially high risk of infection.2 This would include dogs that are boarded, enrolled in day care, or often visit the local dog park. Pet owners should isolate their dogs from any dog that is coughing or shows signs of respiratory illness, and should consult a veterinarian. As with other infectious diseases, the AVMA also advises pet owners to take extra precautions with puppies, elderly or pregnant dogs, and dogs that are immunocompromised. In addition, the AVMA suggests that pet owners to speak with their veterinarian regarding both their dog's risk for canine influenza and the appropriateness of vaccination.3
For years, Zoetis Vanguard® CIV (H3N8) has helped shield dogs across the country from canine influenza virus and its consequences. With this new, Canine Influenza Vaccine, H3N2, Killed Virus,* Zoetis will continue to help protect dogs by offering a comprehensive portfolio of solutions to combat canine influenza.
For more information and tips for helping control canine influenza, please visit Dogflufacts.com.
This product license is conditional. Efficacy and potency studies are in progress.
To learn more about the new vaccine and its availability in local areas, call Zoetis Customer Service at 888-ZOETIS-1.
About Zoetis
Zoetis (zô-EH-tis) is the leading animal health company, dedicated to supporting its customers and their businesses. Building on more than 60 years of experience in animal health, Zoetis discovers, develops, manufactures and markets veterinary vaccines and medicines, complemented by diagnostic products and genetic tests and supported by a range of services. In 2014, the company generated annual revenue of $4.8 billion. With approximately 10,000 employees worldwide at the beginning of 2015, Zoetis serves veterinarians, livestock producers and people who raise and care for farm and companion animals with sales of its products in 120 countries. For more information, visit www.zoetis.com.