From the Research
Definition and Overview of Canine Parvovirus
- Canine Parvovirus (CPV) is a highly contagious and potentially life-threatening disease that affects dogs, particularly puppies, worldwide 1, 2, 3, 4, 5.
- It is characterized by severe gastrointestinal symptoms, including hemorrhagic diarrhea, vomiting, and lethargy, which can lead to dehydration, sepsis, and even death if left untreated 2, 3, 4, 5.
Types of Canine Parvovirus
- There are two main types of Parvovirus that affect canines: Canine parvovirus 2 (CPV-2) and Canine parvovirus 1 (CPV-1), also known as the Minute Virus of Canine (MVC) 3, 4.
- CPV-2 has undergone genetic variation, resulting in three variants: CPV-2a, CPV-2b, and CPV-2c, which have adapted to new host ranges 3.
Transmission and Risk Factors
- The virus is highly contagious and can be transmitted through direct contact with infected dogs, contaminated feces, or contaminated environments 1, 2, 3, 4, 5.
- Puppies are at higher risk of infection due to their immature immune systems, and maternally derived antibody interference can lead to vaccination failure 1.
Diagnosis and Treatment
- Several diagnostic tests are available, including immunological tests (latex agglutination test, SIT-SAT, and ELISA) and molecular-based tests (PCR, mPCR, and RT-PCR) 3, 4, 5.
- Treatment typically involves symptomatic care, including fluid therapy, antibiotics, antiemetics, and pain management, as well as early enteral nutrition to support recovery 2, 5.
- Vaccination is the most effective means of preventing parvoviral enteritis in dogs, and several vaccines are commercially available 1, 3, 4, 5.