A tigress and her four cubs died in Kanha Tiger Reserve recently, prompting concerns over a Canine Distemper Virus outbreak.
About Canine Distemper:
It is a contagious and serious disease caused by the canine distemper virus (CDV).
The virus attacks the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems of dogs and has a very high mortality rate.
All dogs are at risk of canine distemper. Those at particular risk include puppies younger than four months and dogs that have not been vaccinated against CDV.
CDV is a worldwide multi-host pathogen and is increasingly found in wildlife species, including carnivores, large felids, marine mammals, and non-human primates.
Transmission:
It is spread through direct contact or airborne exposure.
The virus does not last long in the environment and can be destroyed by most disinfectants.
However, the distemper-infected dogs can shed the virus for up to several months.
Once a dog is infected, the virus quickly spreads throughout the entire body and significantly weakens the immune system, leaving them susceptible to secondary infections.
Treatment:
There is no cure, and no antiviral drugs have been approved to combat the infection.
The best way to prevent canine distemper is through vaccination.
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