The duration that kennel cough can last on clothes depends on various factors, including the specific virus or bacteria causing the infection and the environmental conditions. Kennel cough is primarily transmitted through respiratory droplets, so it is less likely to survive for extended periods on clothing compared to surfaces.
Generally, viruses can remain viable on surfaces for a few hours to several days, while bacteria may survive for a shorter duration.
However, it’s important to note that direct contact with infected respiratory secretions, such as coughed or sneezed droplets, poses a higher risk of transmission than contact with contaminated clothing.
Table of Contents
What Is Kennel Cough?
Kennel cough, also known as canine infectious tracheobronchitis, is a highly contagious respiratory disease that affects dogs. It is characterized by inflammation of the upper respiratory tract, including the trachea (windpipe) and bronchi (airways leading to the lungs). Kennel cough is commonly caused by a combination of bacterial and viral pathogens.
The main culprits behind kennel cough are the bacterium Bordetella bronchiseptica and the canine parainfluenza virus. Other viruses, such as canine adenovirus and canine distemper virus, can also contribute to the development of kennel cough. These pathogens are easily transmitted through respiratory droplets, direct contact, or contaminated surfaces.
Symptoms of kennel cough often include a dry, hacking cough that can be triggered by excitement, exercise, or pressure on the trachea. The cough may sound like a honking noise and can be persistent and forceful. Other signs may include sneezing, nasal discharge, lethargy, reduced appetite, and occasionally, a mild fever.
Although kennel cough is usually not life-threatening, it can spread rapidly in places where dogs are in close proximity, such as kennels, dog parks, grooming salons, or animal shelters. Proper vaccination against Bordetella bronchiseptica and other associated pathogens can help prevent kennel cough. If a dog develops kennel cough, it is important to isolate the affected dog and seek veterinary care for appropriate treatment, which may include supportive care and, in some cases, antibiotics or antiviral medications.
It’s worth noting that while kennel cough is primarily a canine disease, some similar respiratory infections can affect other animals, such as cats and even humans. However, the specific pathogens and symptoms may differ between species.
Can Kennel Cough Be Passed On Clothes?
While kennel cough primarily spreads through respiratory droplets or direct contact with infected dogs, it is possible for the bacteria or viruses responsible for kennel cough to survive on surfaces such as clothing.
However, the transmission of kennel cough through contaminated clothing is considered less common compared to direct contact or respiratory droplets.
The bacteria Bordetella bronchiseptica, one of the primary causes of kennel cough, can survive on surfaces for a limited period. The exact duration depends on various factors such as temperature, humidity, and the specific conditions of the environment.
While the bacteria can persist on clothing, it is generally less viable and poses a lower risk of transmission compared to direct contact with an infected dog.
To minimize the risk of spreading kennel cough through clothing or other surfaces, it is important to practice good hygiene. Washing your hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling or coming into contact with an infected dog can help reduce the chances of transmission. Additionally, washing or disinfecting clothes, particularly if they have been in close contact with an infected dog, can further reduce the risk of spreading the disease.
If you suspect that your clothing or other belongings have been in contact with an infected dog, taking appropriate measures to clean and disinfect those items can help prevent the potential spread of kennel cough to other dogs or individuals.
How Long Does Kennel Cough Last On Clothes?
While there isn’t an exact duration for how long Bordetella bronchiseptica (the bacterium associated with kennel cough) can survive on clothes, it generally has limited viability outside of a host. The survival of the bacteria on clothing depends on various factors, including temperature, humidity, and the specific conditions of the environment.
In general, Bordetella bronchiseptica is not known for prolonged survival on surfaces compared to some other pathogens. It typically survives for a shorter period, ranging from a few hours to a few days. Factors like moisture, airflow, and the type of fabric can also influence the survival time.
To reduce the potential transmission of kennel cough through contaminated clothing, you can follow these guidelines:
Isolate clothing:
If you suspect that your clothes have been exposed to an infected dog, it is advisable to separate them from other items to minimize the risk of spreading the bacteria.
Wash clothes promptly:
Launder the clothing as soon as possible. Washing clothes with detergent and warm water can help remove and kill any bacteria present.
Dry clothes thoroughly:
After washing, ensure that the clothes are dried completely. Drying at higher temperatures, such as using a hot dryer or hanging the clothes in direct sunlight, can further assist in killing any remaining bacteria.
Disinfect if necessary:
If you want an extra level of precaution, you can consider using a disinfectant suitable for the specific fabric type. Follow the instructions provided by the disinfectant manufacturer for proper usage.
Practice good hygiene:
Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling any potentially contaminated clothing to minimize the risk of spreading bacteria to other surfaces or individuals.
Remember, while it is possible for kennel cough pathogens to survive on clothing, the risk of transmission through contaminated clothes is generally considered low compared to direct contact or respiratory droplets.
Proper vaccination, isolation of infected dogs, and good hygiene practices are crucial in preventing the spread of kennel cough. If you have concerns about kennel cough or suspect your dog may be infected, it’s best to consult with a veterinarian for guidance and appropriate treatment.
How To Get Kennel Cough Out Of Clothes?
To effectively remove kennel cough pathogens from clothes, you can follow these steps:
Isolate the clothes:
Separate the potentially contaminated clothes from other laundry items to avoid spreading any bacteria.
Shake off loose debris:
If there is visible dirt or debris on the clothes, gently shake them to remove as much as possible before proceeding to wash.
Wash with detergent:
Place the clothes in a washing machine and add an appropriate amount of laundry detergent. Use warm water, as it can help in killing bacteria more effectively. Follow the instructions on the detergent packaging for the recommended amount to use.
Use a longer wash cycle:
Opt for a longer wash cycle to ensure thorough cleaning. This can help to dislodge and eliminate any bacteria that may be present on the fabric.
Dry clothes thoroughly:
After washing, dry the clothes completely. Using a hot dryer or hanging them in direct sunlight can aid in killing any remaining bacteria.
Optional: Disinfect if desired:
If you want an extra level of disinfection, you can consider using a suitable disinfectant product designed for use on fabrics. Follow the instructions provided by the disinfectant manufacturer to ensure proper usage and safety. Keep in mind that disinfection may not be necessary in most cases, as the washing process is usually sufficient to eliminate the bacteria.
Clean the washing machine:
After washing the potentially contaminated clothes, it’s a good practice to clean the washing machine itself. Run an empty cycle with hot water and detergent to ensure any residual bacteria is removed from the machine.
Practice good hygiene:
Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling the potentially contaminated clothes to minimize the risk of spreading bacteria to other surfaces or individuals.
By following these steps, you can effectively clean and remove kennel cough pathogens from your clothes.
However, it’s important to note that these measures are primarily precautionary, as the risk of transmission through contaminated clothes is generally considered low compared to direct contact or respiratory droplets.
How To Prevent Kennel Cough From Clothes?
To prevent kennel cough from spreading through clothes, follow these steps:
- Avoid close contact: Stay away from dogs with kennel cough and their clothing to minimize the risk of transmission.
- Use protective barriers: If you need to handle infected dogs or their clothing, consider using disposable gloves, a gown, and a face mask to create a barrier between you and the potential pathogens.
- Practice good hygiene: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling dogs or their clothing. This helps eliminate any bacteria or viruses that may be present.
- Launder-contaminated clothing: If you come into contact with clothing that may have been exposed to kennel cough, wash it separately from other clothes using hot water and a regular detergent. This can help eliminate any pathogens that might be present.
- Maintain a clean environment: Regularly clean and disinfect surfaces that may come into contact with infected clothing to prevent the spread of kennel cough.
By following these preventive measures, you can reduce the risk of kennel cough transmission through clothing.
Read Next:
Final Words
The exact duration that kennel cough can last on clothes is difficult to determine as it depends on various factors. However, it is generally believed that the virus or bacteria responsible for kennel cough may not survive for extended periods on clothing. Respiratory droplets, direct contact, and contaminated surfaces pose a higher risk of transmission than contaminated clothing.
To minimize the risk, practicing good hygiene, avoiding close contact with infected individuals, and properly laundering contaminated clothing is crucial. Regular cleaning and disinfection of surfaces are also recommended to prevent the spread of kennel cough.
