Australia Quarantine News - Canine Influenza Virus Outbreak

[Guest The Pom Queen]

Media statement from DAFF - Post Entry Quarantine

Single Canine Influenza Virus positive test result at Victorian PEQ

A dog recently imported into Australia has tested positive to Canine Influenza Virus (CIV) at the Post Entry Quarantine (PEQ) facility at Mickleham in Victoria.

The infected dog has been isolated and is being cared for by the PEQ staff, with all precautions being taken to limit the spread of the virus.

Testing of other animals that have been in the vicinity of the infected dog is being undertaken. Although it is a highly contagious virus, to date no other dogs have tested positive. 

The department will continue to communicate with owners of dogs that may be impacted by this event and will provide updates as new information becomes available.

While CIV is usually only a mild disease it can cause pneumonia and death in very young, very old, or animals with pre-existing conditions. There is no risk to human health.

CIV has never been reported in Australia and has been identified as a disease of biosecurity concern.

Due to the contagious nature of the virus, as a precaution, no dogs will be able to leave the PEQ facility until the department is confident that the dog is not infected with the virus.

At this stage, it is not possible to advise dog owners when they will be able to collect their dogs from PEQ. The PEQ will provide further advice in the coming days.

While we understand this is worrying for the dog owners affected, the department has a duty to ensure that exotic viruses like CIV do not leave the PEQ facility and potentially affect other dogs in Australia.

Cats are not carriers of CIV, so can be collected under regular arrangements, after the mandatory quarantine period.