Health Alerts

LI VETERINARY
HEALTH ALERTS

Bird Flu On Long Island

Date: March 1, 2025

     The New York State Governor recently closed live bird markets for one week in Long Island, New York City, and Westchester, after discovering seven cases of bird flu were found in these markets. This order called for all infected flocks to be depopulated, for the markets to sell down all inventory, and for the complete disinfection of all affected markets. Ducks at the Queens and Bronx zoos
also recently died from bird flu.
     The highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1, more commonly known as bird flu, is a disease that spreads primarily through birds and other animals, such as cows. It can also spread to humans through infected animals and can cause severe illness, but it is unlikely to spread from human to human. Bird flu affects the animal’s intestines and respiratory tract and it can spread it
through their saliva, nasal secretions, and feces. Bird flu is a very sickening and potentially deadly disease that is detrimental to
wildlife and poultry markets when outbreaks occur.
     This outbreak has raised many concerns, one of which is within Long Island’s duck population. In late January, a bird flu outbreak
occurred on the last duck farm in Long Island, Crescent Duck Farm. The future of the farm became uncertain as it forced the
culling of nearly 100,000 of their prized ducks. They supply duck meat to restaurants across the Northeast, but with the threats of
bird flu, they had to lay off workers and work hard to preserve the genetics of these ducks.
     Similarly, the outbreak in the live bird markets caused major losses in money for the workers. Though necessary to clean the
markets of the disease, it is a challenge to overcome that can affect buyers as well with the possible increases in costs for chickens to
make up for the loss. This in turn affects egg prices, which have been steadily on the rise.
     Backyard farmers also need to be concerned because their animals could come in contact with infected birds or surfaces while
outside. It is vital for these farmers, as well as all people who work with birds, to test poultry samples routinely for bird flu and to pay
attention to any symptoms of bird flu in their animals.
     Symptoms include low energy or appetite, purple discoloration or swelling of various body parts, reduced egg production, nasal discharge, coughing, or sneezing.
     The virus can sometimes jump to other species including pets. The AVMA reports at least 52 domesticated cats have been diag-
nosed with bird flu, since March 2024. While outdoor cats on U.S. dairy farms have been infected with bird flu, there are no reports yet of indoor cats getting infected. There are however a few confirmed cases of cats getting sick that have been linked to the cats’ diet—specifically, contaminated raw food and raw milk.
     For indoor cats the risk of contracting bird flu is low, however, if a cat displays symptoms of the flu it is a medical emergency and
affected pets must get emergency veterinary care. There is not much that can be done once bird flu is contracted and it is very deadly when it spreads, which is why it is crucial to test and watch for signs. People who come in contact with sick or dead animals who may have bird flu are encouraged to wear respiratory and eye protection and gloves when handling these animals.
     Though bird flu does not pose a major threat to humans, there have been 67 confirmed cases of bird flu in humans in the US. This
is most common with farmworkers. There was only one death in Louisiana where a 65+ year old who had underlying health issues had been in contact with their sick and dead backyard flock.
     Humans, especially farmers and people who work with poultry, should take proper precautions to prevent being infected by the
disease.
     With bird flu currently threatening the poultry industry across Long Island and New York it is important to take precautions to try
to prevent any further spread of bird flu.

Sources:
American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA)

Suffolk County Department of Health

Bird Flu At LI Duck Farm

Raccoons at the William Floyd Estate test positive for
Canine Distemper Virus

Date: January 24, 2025
Contact: Fire Island National Seashore - from the National Parks Service

Patchogue, NY - Two raccoons found in recent weeks at the William Floyd Estate tested positive for Canine Distemper Virus (CDV). Residents of the community near the William Floyd Estate in Mastic Beach are advised to avoid potential human and pet encounters with wildlife, including raccoons.

In late December, National Park Service staff observed two raccoons behaving uncharacteristically and also found dead raccoons on the estate grounds. The raccoons tested positive for canine distemper and negative for both rabies and avian influenza (bird flu).

Canine distemper virus in raccoons is transmitted through close contact among their population and can spread to other predators including foxes and coyotes. Occasional, cyclic outbreaks can occur among raccoon populations.

Raccoons exhibiting symptoms of distemper may approach people, be active during the daytime and appear lethargic or disoriented, stumbling or wandering about aimlessly. Though aggressive behavior is not a symptom of distemper, any raccoon may become aggressive if it feels threatened. Persons who notice a raccoon exhibiting unusual behavior should not approach the animal. While canine distemper does not pose a threat to human health, it can be transmitted to dogs. Dogs not vaccinated for distemper are at risk for a potentially fatal disease.

Persons who see a raccoon behaving in the manner described above or find a dead raccoon should notify the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation regional wildlife office at (631)444-0310.

The William Floyd Estate grounds are currently closed to the public. The estate grounds are open seasonally from May 1 until the Sunday after Thanksgiving.

Distemper in Raccoons

January 2025

          This past December, National Park Service staff discovered raccoons on the William Floyd Estate that were behaving uncharacteristically, as well as other dead raccoons that tested positive for Canine Distemper Virus. Symptoms of canine distemper in raccoons include approaching people, daytime activity, and appearing lethargic or disoriented. It is advised to avoid animals showing signs of canine distemper because, though it is not a threat to human health, they can become aggressive if they feel threatened. Through November and December of 2024, there have been distemper outbreaks across many other cities in the United States, namely cities in Colorado, Milwaukee, and Tulsa. With cases of canine distemper becoming apparent, it is vital for dog owners to keep up to date with their pets’ vaccinations in order to prevent the transmission of the virus.
Canine distemper is a severe and contagious virus that is threatening to all dogs, especially young puppies, and unvaccinated dogs. 1 in 2 dogs will likely die due to this infection. It can be contracted through both indirect and direct contact with an infected animal, such as sneezing, barking, and sharing food or water bowls. The virus affects the dog’s respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems, weakening the immune system. There are many clinical signs of distemper, most notably lethargy, fever, discharge from the eyes and nose, vomiting, and diarrhea. They may also experience neurological symptoms like seizures, walking in circles, and muscle twitches. Another prominent side effect is the thickening and hardening of a dog’s nose and foot pads, which gives the virus its nickname of “hard pad disease.”
          Canine distemper is often confused with rabies, but there are many key differences between the two serious viruses. Like distemper, rabies affects the dog’s nervous system. It also affects the brain’s gray matter. Rabies is most commonly spread through the bite of a disease-carrying animal that holds the virus in its salivary glands. Rabies is zoonotic, meaning it can be passed from dog to human, unlike distemper. Distemper and rabies share similar symptoms, such as seizures and fever, but rabies is most noticeably different through the increase of aggression and excessive and frothy salivation. If any rabies or distemper symptoms arise, immediately contact a veterinarian to determine the next steps.
         It is critical to know the difference between distemper and rabies due to the fact that they require different testing and treatment. Dogs are tested for distemper by observing clinical signs and laboratory testing. Though there is no cure, there is still a chance for recovery through quarantine and supportive care, but this will still leave them with permanent nervous system damage. Still, they will gain immunity from distemper. Rabies also has no cure and requires immediate quarantine and monitoring from a veterinarian. Unfortunately, testing for rabies requires a postmortem test, so it is vital to pay close attention to the symptoms the dog is showing in order to have a better understanding of which virus the dog may have been infected with
          Since there is no cure, vaccines are the best way to prevent the contraction of canine distemper. The vaccine, abbreviated as DAPP or DA2PP, is a combination vaccine that protects dogs from various viruses and is considered a “core” vaccine that dogs often first receive as young puppies and get boosters every 1-3 years. It is also encouraged to be mindful of where dog owners bring their puppies while receiving their first doses and to be cautious of having them near wildlife and sick dogs. Places like the William Floyd Estate provide great terrain and many walking trails for dog owners, but with the raccoon case, they must be aware of the possible danger to their pets.

Sources
https://www.nps.gov/fiis/learn/news/raccoons-at-the-william-floyd-estate-test-positive-for-canine-distemper-virus.htm#:~:text=The%20raccoons%20tested%20positive%20for,predators%20including%20foxes%20and%20coyotes.

https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/pet-owners/petcare/canine-distemper

https://www.petpoisonhelpline.com/uncategorized/distemper-and-rabies/

https://www.jsonline.com/story/news/local/2024/11/20/milwaukee-county-sees-sharp-rise-in-raccoons-with-canine-distemper/76430613007/
https://www.cbsnews.com/colorado/news/distemper-raccoons-colorado-animal-control-illness-pet-owners-vaccinate-longmont/
https://www.fox23.com/news/fox23-investigates-raccoon-distemper-outbreak-in-tulsa-raises-concerns-amongst-dog-owners/article_47b42858-a6a0-11ef-8ea9-bf91f56a2d5e.html

Rabies Cases Spike in Nassau County

January 2025

          In mid 2024, Nassau County saw its first reported case of rabies since 2016. This first case involved a feral cat found in Cedarhurst by the town of Hemstead who was said to be with two kittens. Since then, there has been a spike in rabies cases across Nassau County as eight rabid raccoons and feral cats have been collected since July. These cases require veterinarians, pet owners, and residents of the county to be much more cautious around animals and to protect their pets.
          There are many signs of rabies including abnormal behavior, lethargy, fever, vomiting, seizures, and excessive salivation. The virus causes acute encephalitis in warm-blooded hosts and is nearly always fatal which is why it is crucial to take the proper precautions.
          The most important step to prevent the contraction of rabies is to keep up to date with rabies vaccinations. Per New York state law, all dogs, cats, and domesticated ferrets must be vaccinated against rabies. The animal will only be considered immune 28 days after the initial vaccination and then immediately after every booster. In the case that a vaccinated animal comes in contact with a rabid animal, it must be quarantined for 45 days and receive a vaccination within 5 days of the suspected exposure. If the animal is unvaccinated, it must be strictly quarantined for six months or be euthanized.
          A crucial test for pets, especially in order to travel internationally, is the Titer Test. This test is meant to check for how present the antibody that neutralizes rabies is in an animal’s blood. This test essentially shows how effective the vaccinations a pet receives are. This is important for international travel in order to prevent the spread of rabies in other countries. Many countries will not allow foreign pets into their country without an acceptable titer test, even if the pet is up-to-date on its vaccinations. This test is performed by a vet ideally 30 days after receiving the rabies vaccine
          Along with vaccinations, it is vital for pet owners to avoid contact with wild or stray animals and to report any animals that are dead, sick, or behaving abnormally to the Nassau County Department of Health. They must protect not only their pets but themselves as rabies is zoonotic and can be transferred from animal to human. Though there have not been any reports of humans contracting rabies, over 500 people reported being bitten, scratched, or in close contact with a rabid animal in 2024
          It is important to seek immediate help from a veterinarian or medical professional if you, your pet, or any animal is suspect of contracting rabies.
         While veterinarians and staff are not required to get rabies vaccines, the Center for Disease Control recommends that those who suspect they may be exposed to rabies through work or travel get a pre-exposure vaccine that can add a layer of protection
         Insurance coverage of pre-exposure vaccines varies based on health insurance carrier. Primary Care Physicians can check to see if they can provide the vaccine
         If someone has been exposed to the virus, they must immediately seek medical help where they will be assessed on the kind of treatment they will receive. This treatment is more likely to be covered by insurance.
          With the rise in rabies cases in animals in Nassau County, it is crucial for everyone to be aware and cautious of the potential harm that could come from these rabid animals.

Sources
https://www.nbcnewyork.com/long-island/long-island-spike-rabies-animals-found-what-to-know/6102317/#:~:text=On%20Thursday%2C%20Nassau%20County%20Health,in%20the%20county%20since%202016.

https://petraveller.com.au/blog/the-rabies-titre-test-explained
https://rabavert.com/faqs/

https://www.cdc.gov/rabies/hcp/veterinarians/index.html

Rabies Titer Tests & Rabies Vaccines

     While LIVMA does not endorse one medical provider over another, if you or your staff are in need of either a Rabies Titer Test or Rabies Vaccine you can contact Occupational & Environmental Medicine of Long Island where their Board-certified physicians provide consultation services for a wide spectrum of occupational and environmental injuries and exposures.

COSTS:
Rabies vaccines:  $410.00 per vaccine.
Rabies Titer:  $122.00

CONTACT: Jennifer Murphy - Manager Operations
Cell: 516-232-7368     Email: [email protected]

-- They do not process the vaccine or titer through insurance. An itemized bill is given to the patient, who in turn submits the charge/and or charges to their insurance company.
-- Payment is due at the time of service.
-- Accept only credit card payment.
-- Do not accept walk-in appointments because the vaccines need to be ordered.

Two locations:

225 Community Drive, Suite 150
Great Neck, NY 11021
(516) 492-3297

2950 Expressway Drive South, Suite 108
Islandia, NY 11749
631-439-5300

Rabies In Feral Cat In Nassau County

July 2024

For additional information click her to check for updates from the
Nassau County Department of Health website.

To access the information mentioned in the letter above use these links:

Nassau County Bite Incident Report

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website

Canine Respiratory Disease on Long Island

December 2023

Veterinarians across the country, and around Long Island, are currently reporting increased cases of canine respiratory disease that does not respond to regular treatment protocols. Affected dogs experience more severe symptoms than is typical for canine infectious respiratory disease (CIRD) complex.

What to Watch for - Common Signs of Respiratory Disease

Coughing
Sneezing
Labored breathing
Nose or eye discharge
Lethargy
Decreased appetite

Precautions
Respiratory diseases typically spread through direct contact, through water droplets from sneezing and coughing, or from contaminated objects and surfaces. To minimize risk follow LIVMA suggests following these precautions:

Avoid high risk situations for your dog such as boarding kennels, dog parks, and doggy day care facilities if you are unsure about the health status of other dogs in those environments.
Don’t share dog bowls, toys or doggy chews between dogs. Make sure your dog is up to date on their routine vaccinations. Check with your veterinarian if you are unsure when your dog was last routinely vaccinated.

From NEWS 12 Long Island, Dr. Jason Heller, LIVMA President-Elect discussing current cases in our area.

Corona Virus Updates

June 2024

Nassau Department of Health - COVID-19 Updates

Suffolk Department of Health - COVID-19 Updates

New York State Department of Health - COVID -19 Updates

LI VETERINARYHEALTH ALERTS