Canine distemper virus is a highly infectious viral disease of dogs which can cause mild signs in some individuals, but may be fatal in others. Whilst vaccination has resulted in a decrease in the incidence of this disease in recent years, pockets of infection still exist, especially in large cities where there are many unvaccinated dogs. In other countries, like Finland, the disease is still a big killer of dogs
Who is at risk?
Dogs less than one year of age are most commonly affected. However, those animals that have not been vaccinated or have weakened immune systems are also susceptible.
How is it spread?
The canine distemper virus is spread in many ways. An infected animal can easily shed the virus through exhalation implying that the virus is transmitted via air. The virus is also shed through other bodily secretions and excretions such as urine and feces. Younger dogs are more vulnerable canine distemper than older dogs because of their under developed immune systems
Signs and symptoms
What canine distemper is in terms of symptoms maybe confused with other diseases due to its universal and wide range clinical manifestations. Common symptoms are either gastrointestinal (such as vomiting, decrease in appetite, and diarrhea) or respiratory in nature (difficulty in breathing). Transient fever or dramatic and sporadic increases in body temperature is a telltale sign of the infection. Behavioral changes include lethargy, weakness, and depression. Neurological signs may also be seen such as muscle twitching especially near the mouth and legs. Seizures and paralysis may occur in severe cases. A more or less unique skin sign in dogs with canine distemper is the hardening of footpads and nose pad most evident in older dogs. Sudden death is not uncommon with this disease.
Prevention
Canine distemper is rampant in unvaccinated dog population. Many industrialized countries having implemented great vaccination programs against the disease have successfully controlled the virus from spreading. Vaccination of young dogs begins as early as 6 weeks of age. Booster shots are administered yearly to ensure and maintain the antibodies against the virus. Basic proper hygiene and sanitation such as the use of standard disinfectants is sufficient to kill the canine distemper virus. Infected animals should also be quarantined from other animals
