Canine distemper

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Canine Distemper

Canine distemper (/kəˈnaɪn dɪsˈtɛmpər/) is a viral disease that affects a wide variety of animal families, including domestic and wild species of dogs, foxes, wolves, and large cats, as well as pinnipeds, some primates, and a variety of other species.

Etymology

The term "distemper" is derived from the Middle English distemperen, meaning to upset the balance of the humors, which is a reference to the condition's obvious effect on the health of the animal.

Symptoms

Canine distemper is characterized by high fever, reddened eyes, and a watery discharge from the nose and eyes. An infected dog will become lethargic and tired, and will usually become anorexic. Persistent coughing, vomiting, and diarrhea may also occur. In the later stages of the disease, the virus starts attacking the nervous system and the dog may start having fits, seizures, paralysis, and attacks of hysteria.

Transmission

Canine distemper is caused by a single-stranded RNA virus of the family Paramyxoviridae (the same family of the viruses that causes measles, mumps, and bronchiolitis in humans). The disease is highly contagious via inhalation and is often contracted through contact with respiratory secretions from an infected dog or wild animal.

Prevention and Treatment

There is no specific treatment for canine distemper. Supportive care is the mainstay of treatment. Vaccination against canine distemper is the most effective preventative measure.

Related Terms

External links

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