Wildlife Diseases Flashcards
NON-infectious differentials for abnormal wildlife behavior
- trauma
- malnutrition
- toxicities (natural or anthropogenic)
The raccoon strain of rabies is predominant in NC, but _____ and____ strains are the main concerns in other parts of the country
fox, skunk
Can different species be infected with each other’s strain of rabies?
YES
Most cases of rabies in US in the past decade are of what origin?
bat origin; unperceived exposures
Challenges of rabies in wildlife
some species seem to be able to tolerate virus for years without developing clinical signs, but still able to transmit before they show signs. (examples = bats, skunks)
Clinical signs of rabies
- none (“dumb” form)
- “furious” form: wild animals have no fear of man, are abnormally aggressive, may foam at mouth
- convulsions, paralysis, prostration just prior to death
Some differentials for rabies
- canine distemper
- pseudorabies
- other viral encephalitis causes
- various toxicants
Diagnostic findings-rabies
inclusions in neurons of pyramidal layer of cerebral cortex (Negri bodies)
Preferred diagnostic sample to submit for rabies
head with brain intact
Etiologic agent of pseudorabies
suid herpesvirus 1 (alphaherpesvirus)
Pseudorabies-susceptible species
virtually all mammals
Pseudorabies was first discovered in what species?
Cattle
Pseudorabies transmission
primarily direct contact; other ways possible including air-borne, contaminated drinking water and feed; carnivores eating infected raw pork
Macroscopic lesions-pseudorabies
minimal; can be cutaneous lesions due to pruritus (esp. raccon, brown bears, white-tailed deer). may see hemorrhages in different organs.
Canine distemper-type of virus
morbillivirus (paramyxovirus group)
