By Marisa Francis
•
December 7, 2023
As many of you know, concerns about an outbreak of atypical canine infectious respiratory disease (CIRD) have been reported in areas all over the United States. This has dominated media outlets early in this holiday season. At this time, we are told several cases have been reported recently although we do know the actual number of cases reported. The Maryland Veterinary Medical Association (MDVMA) is aware of the concerns of the citizens of Maryland. CIRD is a broad term to describe known bacterial and viral causes of lung, trachea (throat), and nasal disease. The problem with atypical CIRD is that it does not always respond or behave like common CIRD. There has been very little and consistent data reported as the definitive pathogen causing this illness. Different states are reporting different things with some known pathogens being isolated and some are not. Veterinarians - continue reading. Dog owners - continue reading.