Canine Parvovirus (Parvo)

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Overview

Canine parvovirus (CPV) is a highly-contagious viral infection that affects domestic dogs and other members of the dog family (e.g., wolves, foxes). There are two forms of disease: intestinal CPV and cardiac CPV (also called myocardial CPV).

In most cases, CPV attacks the gastrointestinal (GI) tract and causes symptoms such as bloody diarrhea, vomiting, fever, and a lack of energy (lethargy). This is intestinal CPV infection. Cardiac CPV is a condition in which the virus damages the heart muscle, resulting in heart failure and death. This form of the disease is rare and usually occurs in unborn puppies and puppies that are less than 8 weeks old.

There are many different types of parvovirus. For example, parvovirus B19 causes fifth disease (erythema infectiosum) in people. CPV was first identified in 1978. Currently, the CPV-2a and CPV-2b strains of the virus are found in domestic dogs worldwide. Canine parvovirus usually results from infection with one of these strains. Similar viruses also infect cats (e.g., feline distemper virus, CPV-2b strain FP84) and other animals.

In about 80% of cases, dogs that are infected with CPV do not develop symptoms. In dogs that develop the disease, symptoms usually occur within 10 days of exposure to the virus.

Transmission
Canine parvovirus spreads through oral contact with infected feces (stool) or contaminated surfaces (e.g., soil, shoes, dog toys). Following ingestion, the virus multiplies (replicates) and spreads to the bloodstream and throughout the body. It reaches the digestive tract about 3 days after exposure. Beginning 3–4 days after infection and continuing for about 5–7 days, the virus is shed (i.e., cast off) in the dog's feces and can be transmitted to other dogs.

Incidence
Canine parvovirus infection occurs worldwide in domestic dogs and other members of the dog family. Incidence is higher in animal shelters, pet stores, and breeding kennels. CPV can affect dogs at any age. Severe infection is most common in puppies between 6 weeks and 4 months old.

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