Description
Data Sheet
| Background | The canine parvovirus (CPV) infection is a highly contagious viral illness that affects dogs. Parvoviruses are single-stranded DNA viruses with a genome of about 5000 nucleotides. They are one of the smallest known viruses. Without envelope they have a diameter of about 20-25 nm. They show a high physical stability. The capsid is highly resistant and the virions can remain infectious for months to years. The virus manifests itself in two different forms. The more common form is the intestinal form, which is characterized by vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, and lack of appetite (anorexia). The less common form is the cardiac form, which attacks the heart muscles of very young puppies, often leading to death. Parvovirus is excreted in the feces. The most common mode of transmission is indirectly. The viruses are taken up oronasal from the contaminated environment or contaminated litter. They are transported via the lymphatic cells of the pharynx in almost all organs. Replication occurs preferably in lymphocytic cells. During replication, the host cell is destroyed. Via the epithelial cells the virus is transported in the intestinal lumen and is then excreted within the feces. The majority of cases are seen in puppies that are between six weeks and six months old. |
