Canine Parvovirus(CPV)
This disease appeared suddenly in the United States in the
summer of 1978, after which it spread rapidly throughout North America, Great
Britain, Australia, South Africa and Europe.
CPV was first thought to be a disease which attacked the
gastrointestinal tract primarily, producing vomiting and diarrhea. Both the Corona and Parvo
viruses were implicated. It is now recognized that while both viruses do produce
an illness in dogs, the Corona virus seems to cause a milder disorder especially
in adults.
Parvovirus has a special affinity for attacking rapidly
reproducing cells such as those lining the gastrointestinal tract; bone marrow;
lymph nodes and heart.The virus,
which is highly contagious, transmitted from one dog to another via contaminated
droplets and feces.It can be
carried on the f\dogs hair and feet as well as on contaminated cages, shoes and
other objects. Dogs of all ages are affected, but the highest mortality occurs
among puppies less than five months of age. Two main syndromes are recognized:
Diarrhea Syndrome (Enteritis):After an incubation period of 7 to 14 days, the first signs are severe
depression with loss of appetite, followed by vomiting. The dog appears to be in extreme pain,
with a tucked up abdomen. Within 24
hours he develops a high fever (up to 106 Degrees F) and a profuse diarrhea
which is frequently bloody. Mouth inflammation can occur. Almost no
other canine disease produces such devastating symptoms.
Cardiac Syndrome (Myocarditis): This form of CPV affects the muscle of
the heart, especially in puppies less than three months of age. Puppies with myocarditis stop nursing,
cry out and gasp for breath. Death can occur suddenly, or in several days. Puppies who recover sometimes develop a chronic form of congestive heart
failure which leads to death in weeks or months. While myocarditis can occur without
enteritis, it might be three to six weeks after a dog has apparently recovered
from enteritis.
Treatment
Success of treatment is variable depending on the form and
severity of CPV infection as well as the age of the dog.It includes fluid and electrolyte
replacement, medication to control diarrhea and vomiting and administration of
broad spectrum antibiotics to prevent secondary bacterial infections. In all but mild cases, hospitalization
for intensive management is essential. Dogs who recover are immune to the disease.
The quarters of an infected dog should be cleaned and
thoroughly disinfected. This is an extremely hardy virus that resists most household cleaners. The best disinfectant is liquid
bleach. one part to 30 parts
water).
CPV
can be prevented by an appropriate vaccination schedule. Parvovirus vaccinations must be kept
current in all dogs. |
