State animal officials want veterinarians and kennel owners to keep an eye out for canine influenza, a potentially fatal virus affecting dogs.

Mercer, Sussex and Burlington counties have had confirmed cases of canine influenza so far. More confirmations are expected.

?There?s no known cure and there?s no known virus, so the situation we run into is supportive care,? says veterinarian Dr. Elizabeth Boggier. ?It?s very difficult to identify. Clinically it's very similar to ? Kennel Cough.?

Experts say the most contagious areas are areas with heavy canine traffic like kennels, grooming salons and dog parks. Symptoms for canine influenza are flu-like and usually begin two to five days after exposure.