Parvovirus

Question 1

How is Parvovirus transmitted? How does it cause clinical signs?

Answer 1

fecal-oral from small amounts of fecal contamination of a fomite

destroys rapidly dividing cells in intestinal crypts (secondary villous atrophy) and bone marrow

Question 2

What are the 3 classic clinical signs of Parvovirus infection? What else is seen?

Answer 2

1. severe, bloody diarrhea
2. leukopenia and fever
3. vomiting

loss of appetite, lethargy, dehydration

Question 3

How is Parvovirus infection diagnosed? Confirmed?

Answer 3

based on history (young/unvaccinated) and lab work (leukopenia) –> U/S for possible intussusception

fecal Parvovirus ELISA +/- antibody titers from serum or GI biopsies

Question 4

How are patients with Parvovirus treated? What are 4 important aspects?

Answer 4

supportive treatment until patient’s immune system can fight the infection:

1. IV fluid therapy - correct initial fluid and electrolyte deficits and account for ongoing losses/lack of intake
2. systemic, broad-spectrum, IV antibiotics - Amikacin, Clavamox, Enrofloxacin, Ampicillin
3. antiemetics - Metoclopramide, Cerenia, Chlorpromazine
4. gastric protectants - Ranitidine, Omeprazole, Sucralfate
   +/- anti-inflammatories, rG-CSF, nutrition, anti-parasitics

Question 5

What is the only disinfectant effective against Parvovirus? How else can spread be prevented?

Answer 5

bleach

• vaccination
• careful hygiene
• isolation of ill animals

Question 6

What age of dogs are most susceptible to Parvovirus?

Answer 6

6 weeks to 6 months old

• <6 weeks = maternal antibodies