Florida officials confirm 7 cases of canine influenza

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) — Florida health officials have confirmed seven cases of H3N2 canine influenza in the state.

A Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services news release announced Tuesday that the “dog flu” cases have been confirmed in coordination with the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine. Six additional results for the virus are pending.

The release says all dogs being treated are in stable condition. There is no evidence that the virus infects people.

H3N2 has been circulating throughout the U.S. since 2015, but the release says these are the first confirmed Florida cases.

Officials say the mortality rate for dog flu is low. Most dogs recover at home without any complications. Some require hospitalization.

Officials didn’t immediately say where the confirmed cases were located.