One Health

Canine influenza ("dog flu") is a highly contagious respiratory disease in dogs caused by specific influenza A viruses (H3N2 and H3N8). It spreads between dogs through respiratory droplets and contaminated surfaces and can persist in the environment briefly, similar to how human flu viruses spread in people. 

While canine influenza does not currently infect people and no human cases have ever been reported, influenza viruses are constantly evolving. That means surveillance and cross-sector collaboration remain central to One Health efforts.

 

In comparison, human influenza viruses circulate widely and pose significant seasonal and pandemic risks. The World Health Organization explains how animal influenza viruses (such as avian or swine flu) can occasionally infect humans and why integrated surveillance across animals and humans is essential.

 

Trusted reference links:

• CDC on Canine Influenza (Dog Flu): https://www.cdc.gov/flu/animals/about/canine-flu.html

• CDC on Influenza A in Animals (broader context): https://www.cdc.gov/flu/animals/about/index.html

• WHO on Influenza (avian and other zoonotic): https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/influenza-(avian-and-other-zoonotic)

How can veterinarians, public health professionals, and animal caregivers strengthen influenza surveillance together?

Please share your insights and practical experiences.

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T' Fisher, Director of Operations
Program for Pet Health Equity
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Thanks for this post!

While not Canine/Human Influenza specific, after our research in the earliest days of COVID, we found that 40-43% of cats and dogs were acquiring COVID19 from their infected owners (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36288573/) we talked about the importance of vaccines to protect the animals. And maybe people won't get a vaccine for themselves, but they may do it to protect their animals. 

Here is a link to flyers in 9 languages if helpful to anyone!  https://cohr.deohs.washington.edu/covid-19-and-pets-resources 

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Vickie Ramirez
Program Manager
University of Washington, One Health Clinic
WA
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Original Message:
Sent: 01-23-2026 05:50 AM
From: T' Fisher
Subject: Canine Influenza and Human Flu: A One Health Conversation

Canine influenza ("dog flu") is a highly contagious respiratory disease in dogs caused by specific influenza A viruses (H3N2 and H3N8). It spreads between dogs through respiratory droplets and contaminated surfaces and can persist in the environment briefly, similar to how human flu viruses spread in people. 

While canine influenza does not currently infect people and no human cases have ever been reported, influenza viruses are constantly evolving. That means surveillance and cross-sector collaboration remain central to One Health efforts.

 

In comparison, human influenza viruses circulate widely and pose significant seasonal and pandemic risks. The World Health Organization explains how animal influenza viruses (such as avian or swine flu) can occasionally infect humans and why integrated surveillance across animals and humans is essential.

 

Trusted reference links:

• CDC on Canine Influenza (Dog Flu): https://www.cdc.gov/flu/animals/about/canine-flu.html

• CDC on Influenza A in Animals (broader context): https://www.cdc.gov/flu/animals/about/index.html

• WHO on Influenza (avian and other zoonotic): https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/influenza-(avian-and-other-zoonotic)

How can veterinarians, public health professionals, and animal caregivers strengthen influenza surveillance together?

Please share your insights and practical experiences.

------------------------------
T' Fisher, Director of Operations
Program for Pet Health Equity
------------------------------