Canine Parvovirus
Canine Parvovirus is a highly contagious and potentially fatal gastrointestinal disease in dogs. It was first identified in 1978. Factors that contribute to the severity of the disease include age, vaccination status, and breed predilection. Infections occur most commonly in puppies less than20 weeks of age with inadequate or incomplete vaccination.
Clinical signs vary in severity from mild to acute death. Clinical signs may include vomiting, bloody diarrhea, lethargy, depression, and anorexia. Parvovirus is not the only disease that causes vomiting and diarrhea and therefore, should be evaluated by your veterinarian.
Indirect transmission occurs by environmental contamination with fecal material or objects such as food/water bowls, bedding, and toys. Transmission may also occur by direct contact between dogs. In addition, the virus may be spread by caretakers by direct contact and on clothing and shoes. The virus is shed in large quantities in the feces for up to 14 days post infection. The virus is very stable and survives in the environment for long periods of time. It has been known to survive months to even years.
Diagnosis
Fecal sample analysis by ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay). A positive result is definitive diagnosis for canine Parvovirus. However, a negative result does not rule out the disease. A CBC (complete blood count) may also be evaluated. A low white cell count (leukopenia <2000) is often present with canine Parvovirus.
There is no direct treatment for the virus itself. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive. Principles of treatment include fluid therapy, antibiotics, and anti-vomiting medication. Intravenous administration of therapy with an IV catheter is the preferred method and has the best prognosis. Fluids are administered to correct fluid loss and dehydration resulting from vomiting and diarrhea. Antibiotics are given due to potential intestinal compromise and systemic secondary bacterial infections. Anti-vomiting drugs prevent further vomiting and reduce additional fluid and electrolyte loss.
Prevention
Vaccination is the key to prevention. Puppies are vaccinated every 2 to 4 weeks beginning at 8 weeks of age until 16-20 weeks of age. Regardless of the vaccination protocol, the risk of exposure and development of disease exists during the period of susceptibility when maternal antibodies decrease and the development of active immunity by vaccination is not complete. Yearly boosters are strongly recommended for all adult canines. Consult your veterinarian regarding individual vaccination recommendations. Dogs surviving from infection appear to have life-long immunity. Environmental clean-up and disinfecting all exposed surfaces is recommended in the face of clinical disease.
