Latest news with #CanineDistemper
Time of India
22-05-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Canine distemper cases on the rise
1 2 Chennai: In the Oct-Dec period every year, when the northeast monsoon is on in the city, another trend an uptick in viral infections among pet dogs unfolds quietly. Between March 2011 and Feb 2019, researchers at Teaching Veterinary Hospital of Madras Veterinary College reviewed 1,447 suspected cases. Of these, 1,185 dogs were clinically diagnosed with Canine Distemper (CD), a contagious and deadly viral disease, recording a positivity rate of nearly 82%. Researchers from Tamil Nadu Veterinary and Animal Sciences University (Tanuvas) and University of Missouri, who conducted the study, found that CD cases rose during the northeast monsoon and winter months. They developed a forecasting model using past disease data and weather variables such as temperature, humidity, rainfall, and wind speed. "Community or stray dogs could be already infected, but they survive because of strong immunity. The virus spreads through their saliva and urine. When you take unvaccinated pet dogs on a walk and they come in contact with it, there are chances of them getting infected," said Naveen Kumar Viswanathan, the study's corresponding author, who worked with the research team in Tanuvas Salem, Namakkal, Chennai, and University of Missouri. Canine Distemper is an airborne virus that also spreads through contact with infected secretions. It affects the respiratory, digestive, and nervous systems in dogs and can be fatal, especially in those not vaccinated. Researchers observed that CD cases peak in Nov. While most cases occurred during the monsoon and winter, the patterns traced back to the summer. When temperatures and humidity rise during summer, dogs often gather in cooler places for shelter. These groupings create conditions for the virus to spread later, as it survives longer in cooler months. The virus is shed by infected dogs and can settle on surfaces. In summer, the virus dies off faster. But in winter and during rains, it stays active longer in the environment, leading to faster transmission. The study reported higher CD prevalence in northern parts of Chennai, particularly Nagar and Royapuram. Researchers linked this to high population density and the practice of allowing pet dogs to roam freely. "More long-term studies linking weather and disease patterns are needed. CDV has already affected lions in Gujarat. If the virus crosses over to humans, we must be prepare," Naveen Kumar said.
Yahoo
20-03-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
More than 100 dogs euthanized for the second time
MEMPHIS, Tenn. — More than 100 dogs have been euthanized at the Memphis Animal Services shelter because of a second outbreak of Canine Distemper in two months. MAS euthanized 104 dogs Wednesday after they contracted the Canine Distemper Virus. 'This closure will allow our team to focus on providing the highest level of care to the animals currently in the shelter and take all necessary steps to manage the situation,' said MAS in a statement. In January, WREG shared a video of a dog on the streets of Memphis showing signs of distemper during the previous outbreak where another 100 dogs were euthanized. Memphis shelter deals with second outbreak of canine distemper Hanna Juddin owner of two dogs said that it is concerning to hear about another Canine Distemper Virus outbreak at MAS. The virus is warned to be a disease that can rapidly shut down a dog's respiratory, intestinal, and nervous system. It is highly contagious and frequently fatal in kennel populations. 'I just know that I make sure that they are vaccinated, just like whatever needs to be protected talk to my vet,' said Juddin. Juddin urges pet parents to become more aware of the virus and take the necessary precautions. She said that while the stray population in the Memphis area is a problem. It is not all on MAS. 'We're living in the same community, so when everybody does their part it makes it easier rather than saying they are the ones who are in charge over everything.' Man accused of kidnapping 14-year-old girl faces new charges The shelter is urging all pet owners to keep their pets safe and healthy. Here's what you need to know to prevent and spot distemper: Vaccination: Ensure your pets are up-to-date on their vaccinations. Distemper is preventable, and vaccinations are the best defense against this virus. Symptoms to Watch For: If your pet shows signs like sneezing, nasal discharge, coughing, or lethargy, please consult your veterinarian immediately. Keep Distance: Limit interactions with unfamiliar animals and avoid dog parks until the situation is resolved. Spread the Word: Please share this message to help keep the community informed For more updates from MAS you can visit its Facebook page or contact Memphis Animal Services directly for more information. The city said that MAS will discuss the distemper situation later this week. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
12-03-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Memphis shelter deals with second outbreak of canine distemper
MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Memphis Animal Services says it has to euthanize more dogs due to a second outbreak of Canine Distemper at the shelter in less than two months. MAS made the following statement on its website: The Memphis Animal Shelter is currently responding to an outbreak of Canine Distemper Virus (CDV) affecting three kennel areas within the facility. To contain the spread of the disease and protect the health and safety of both the animals and the broader community, the shelter has made the incredibly difficult choice to humanely euthanize dogs who have tested positive for the virus, along with evaluating and addressing cases involving dogs at high risk of infection. Additional measures may be necessary as further test results become available. In January, nearly 100 dogs were euthanized at the Memphis animal shelter following another Distemper outbreak at the facility. Nearly 100 dogs euthanized at Memphis animal shelter due to distemper outbreak Mary Claire Borys said in January MAS was forced to euthanize exposed animals to prevent the disease from spreading to healthy animals and the community. The shelter allowed the adoption of a few previously committed animals based on the adopter's ability to safely quarantine the dog until it tested clear of infection. MAS said that Distemper is a highly contagious and serious disease that can spread rapidly in a shelter environment, particularly among young or non-vaccinated animals. During times of high puppy intake, outbreaks tend to occur as these puppies can be carriers of the virus. Toddler dies after being hit by car in Parkway Village The animal shelter said it's reinforcing ongoing sanitation protocols, continuing to isolate exposed animals, and closely monitoring the health of all animals in care. MAS remains open to the public, but they are temporarily closing intake appointments and public microchipping services until they can better control the population and ensure the safety of our animals. 'They are working with veterinary experts and the community to manage this situation responsibly and transparently,' said MAS on their website. 'Healthy, unexposed dogs remain available for adoption and fostering. We urge the community to consider adopting or fostering to help alleviate overcrowding and protect the welfare of animals still in care.' The shelter is urging all pet owners to keep their pets safe and healthy. Here's what you need to know to prevent and spot distemper: Vaccination: Ensure your pets are up-to-date on their vaccinations. Distemper is preventable, and vaccinations are the best defense against this virus. Symptoms to Watch For: If your pet shows signs like sneezing, nasal discharge, coughing, or lethargy, please consult your veterinarian immediately. Keep Distance: Limit interactions with unfamiliar animals and avoid dog parks until the situation is resolved. Spread the Word: Please share this message to help keep the community informed For more updates from MAS you can visit its Facebook page or contact Memphis Animal Services directly for more information. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
