NORTH AUSTIN-PFLUGERVILLE, TX -- Beware of dog flu.
A national flu outbreak afflicting canines has reached Texas, with confirmed cases in North Austin and Pflugerville. A handful of cases were reported in mid-December, but it now appears the seasonal affliction has spread further.
The new strain of dog flu is dubbed H3N2, informs KVUE-TV. Derived from a strain of the avian flu, the new strain can cause nasal discharge, difficulty in breathing, coughing, loss of appetite and decreased energy levels.
Find out what's happening in North Austin-Pflugervillefor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Williamson County Regional Animal Center director Sheryl Snyder said this week that cases of dog flu have been confirmed throughout Williamson County, including Pflugerville.
The good news: Dog flu is rarely, If ever, fatal. Veterinarians can provide a flu vaccine as further protection for pets.
More good news: The dog flu doesn’t transfer to humans.
Find out what's happening in North Austin-Pflugervillefor free with the latest updates from Patch.
A pet version of WebMD provides a useful primer on dog flu, including tips on prevention and treatment.
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