H1N1 2009

Pets and H1N1: CVMA press release 11.5.09
Read the CVMA press release in response to the confirmed H1N1 case in the cat in Iowa.

H1N1 and Companion Animals Talking Points
With the diagnosis of H1N1 in a cat in iowa, questions are being raised about the transmission of H1N1 from people to pets. This document from Veterinary News Network offers talking points for veterinarians with their clients.

Protecting Pets from Illness – Iowa Department of Public Heatlh
Read the response from IDPH on the confirmed case of H1N1 in a cat in Iowa.

H1N1 Confirmed in Iowa Cat
Read the AVMA press release and additional information.

Cat in Iowa Positive for H1N1 Virus
The Oregon VMA reports on the Iowa case, as well as the two cases in ferrets, one of which was in Oregon.

Frequently Asked Questions About 2009 H1N1 Flu Virus
This resource from the AVMA answers questions about the 2009 H1N1 virus.

Testing

H1N1 Testing at the CSU Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory
Colorado State University Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory is a swine influenza approved National Animal Health Laboratory Network laboratory. The CSU VDL has requested approval to the USDA to use the rRt-PCR 2009 H1N1 assay in species other than swine. Upon approval, CSU VDL can test nasal and/or pharyngeal swabs for the 2009 H1N1 flu virus. The swabs should be placed in a sterile tube with a few drops of saline. Do not use bacterial transport media.  If you have any questions call 970.297.1281.

If a test is positive for the 2009 H1N1 virus, the sample will be sent to the National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) for confirmatory testing.  If the NVSL’s testing confirms the infection, you will be notified.

Q:  How can I test a pet I suspect is infected with the 2009 H1N1 flu virus?
A:  A list of the swine influenza virus approved NAHLN laboratories can be found at http://www.aphis.usda.gov/animal_health/nahln/downloads/siv_lab_list.pdf. The SIV approved NAHLN laboratories must request approval to the USDA rRT-PCR for the 2009 H1N1 assays in species other than swine. SIV NAHLN laboratories with appropriate approvals can test nasal and/or pharyngeal swabs for the 2009 H1N1 flu virus.  The swabs should be placed in a sterile tube with a few drops of saline. Do not use bacterial transport medium.  

Q:  What happens if the test comes back positive?
A:  If the state laboratory’s test is positive for the 2009 H1N1 virus, the sample is sent to the National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) for confirmatory testing. If the NVSL’s testing confirms the infection, you will be notified. 
 

2009 Pandemic H1N1 Influenza Chart
At this time, CDPHE is not making 2009 H1N1 reportable in pets.
Currently, the USDA National Veterinary Services Laboratory is keeping a line listing of animals testing positive for 2009 H1N1, which is available at: