Explained: What is Parvovirus that has affected over 2,000 dogs in Maharashtra’s Amravati city?

What is the news?

Nearly 2,000 pets and stray dogs in Amravati city have been affected by canine parvovirus virus.

What is Canine Parvovirus?

Canine Parvovirus is a highly contagious viral disease that can be life-threatening in puppies and dogs.

The virus impacts dogs gastrointestinal tracts and has a 90% mortality rate.

Symptoms: Bloody diarrhoea, vomiting, drastic weight loss, dehydration and lethargy are some of its symptoms.

Transmission among Dogs: The virus spreads through direct contact with an infected dog or by indirect contact with a contaminated object, including the hands and clothing of people who handle infected dogs. 

Treatment: Parvovirus has no cure, and vaccinating a puppy or a dog gives them a fighting chance against the infection.

Source: This post is based on the article ‘Explained: What is Parvovirus that has affected over 2,000 dogs in Maharashtra’s Amravati city?’ published in Indian Express on 20^th Dec 2021.