Parvovirus reported in U.P.

No cases of contagious virus found in Delta County yet, veterinarians say

By Dionna Harris

ESCANABA - Cases of a particularly virulent strain of canine parvovirus has been reported in the eastern region of the Upper Peninsula, but has not found its way to Delta County as of yet.

According to Dr. Marlene Mackie of the Escanaba Veterinary Clinic, canine parvovirus ll C is a new variant strain of the debilitating and sometimes fatal parvovirus.

"We haven't seen any signs of canine parvovirus ll C here in Escanaba as of yet, however that does not mean it cannot show up," said Dr. Mackie.

Fecal waste from dogs infected with the virus is the main source of transmission. It can also be passed through dog-to-dog contact. Dogs can be susceptible during dog shows, when placed in boarding kennels, obedience classes, humane shelters, or at parks and playgrounds. It can also be transmitted by humans, who in coming into contact with an infected dog, can carry the virus on their hands or clothing. The virus causes inflammation of the intestines, leading to loss of appetite, vomiting, dehydration and bloody diarrhea.

"With this new strain of virus, the diarrhea may be absent or very mild in most cases, however, infected dogs tend to stop eating," said Dr. Mackie.

Dogs most susceptible to contracting the virus are puppies who have not been immunized, or dogs who have been improperly immunized, said Mackie.

Puppies should be vaccinated for canine parvovirus beginning at six weeks of age, with a second vaccine given at nine weeks and again at 12 weeks. It has recently been recommended by the American Animal Hospital Association for dogs to receive another vaccine at 16 weeks. Older dogs can also be vaccinated against the virus. Generally a vaccine is given at one year of age and every three years following, according to Mackie.

"Unfortunately, there are no anti-viral medications to give an animal who contracts canine parvovirus," said Mackie, who added dogs can be treated for the illness, however.

Treatment for canine parvovirus includes: Isolating the infected dog to prevent the spread of the virus; replacing lost fluids through IV solutions; and supportive care to help control vomiting. While the vaccine may not prevent canine parvovirus infection, it can reduce the effects and costs associated with treatment. In many cases, a vaccinated dog will recover. Treatment for a dog who did not receive the vaccine or was improperly vaccinated can be extensive. Without treatment the dog will die. In severe cases, even with treatment, the animal will die.

While there is no evidence of canine parvovirus being transmitted to humans, the virus is very hardy and can survive extreme temperatures, unless the area is throughly cleaned.

Mackie said a solution of household bleach mixed with water at a concentration ratio of 30 parts bleach to one part water is a very good disinfectant.

"Prevention is key. Having a dog properly vaccinated can make the difference between life and death," said Mackie.