Canine Distemper - cause, pathophysiology, clinical signs, diagnosis, treatment, prevention

Canine distemper virus is an enveloped ssRNA virus of the genus Morbillivirus in the family Paramyxoviridae. It is transmitted via direct contact and aerosol droplets. CDV has a tropism for cells with the Signaling Lymphocyte Activation Molecule (SLAM) and nectin-4 receptors, with the clinical signs being a consequence of infection of these cells. Laboratory diagnosis is needed to confirm canine distemper. Treatment involves symptomatic and supportive therapy. Vaccination is done in puppies 6 weeks of age at regular intervals until 16 weeks of age. With revaccination done annually.

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References:
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MacLachlan NJ, Dubovi EJ, Barthold SW, Swayne DE, Winton JR. 2017. Fenner's Veterinary Virology. 5th ed. London, UK: Academic Press.


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