Distemper, specifically canine distemper, is a highly contagious viral disease that affects a wide variety of mammals including domestic dogs, wild canids (like foxes and wolves), ferrets, skunks, raccoons, and some large cats such as lions and tigers. It does not affect humans or cats
. The disease is caused by the canine distemper virus (CDV), a single-stranded RNA virus in the family Paramyxoviridae, which also includes viruses responsible for measles and mumps in humans
. It primarily attacks multiple body systems in infected animals, including the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and central nervous systems
. Common symptoms in dogs include:
- High fever
- Eye inflammation and discharge from eyes and nose
- Labored breathing and coughing
- Vomiting and diarrhea
- Loss of appetite and lethargy
- Hardening of the nose and footpads
- Neurological signs such as seizures, tremors, disorientation, stumbling, head tilt, and paralysis in severe cases
The virus spreads mainly through inhalation of airborne droplets from coughing or sneezing infected animals, as well as contact with contaminated objects like food bowls
. There is no specific antiviral treatment for distemper. Care focuses on supportive and symptomatic treatment, including hospitalization, fluid therapy, control of secondary bacterial infections with antibiotics, and anti- seizure medications if needed
. Despite treatment, distemper can be fatal, especially in unvaccinated animals. Prevention is primarily through vaccination, usually given as a series starting in puppies, with boosters throughout life. Avoiding contact with infected animals and wildlife, and keeping food and water indoors to prevent contamination, are also important preventive measures
. In summary, distemper is a serious, often fatal viral disease affecting multiple organ systems in dogs and other mammals, preventable by vaccination and managed by supportive care
