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Canine distemper virus is one of the most prevalent infectious agents causing severe clinical symptoms among canids. Communal life-habitat for example clinics, dog-shelters, or rural areas is critical in terms of the transmission dynamics of CDV. In this study, blood samples from 92 dogs, aged 2 to 12 months, that were brought to the Rehabilitation Center and private veterinary clinics in Antalya with various internal medical problems were examined for Canine Distemper Virus (CDV) infection. Samples were tested using commercial immunochromatographic rapid test for detection of CDV-antigens and Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) for detection of CDV-specific IgG and IgM antibodies. The most common clinical findings in the 92 dogs sampled were mucopurulent discharge in the eye (45.65%), nasal hyperkeratosis (35.87%), nasal mucopurulent discharge (25%), cough (13.04%), diarrhea (8.70%), and fatigue (6.52%). It was observed that clinical findings were more intense in the early reconvalescent period. 5.43% (5/92) of the samples examined by immunochromatographic rapid test were positive. The positivity rates of IgG and IgM antibodies by ELISA were 19.56% (18/92) and 94.56% (87/92), respectively. Of the 92 dogs tested by ELISA for detection of IgG and IgM antibodies, 91 (98.91%) were positive for one or both IgG or IgM antibodies, and 1 (1.09%) was negative for both antibodies. In conclusion, it was determined that CDV infection is actively circulating in the Antalya province and poses a risk for unvaccinated dogs in the region.

The Paramyxoviridae family includes enveloped single-stranded negative-sense RNA viruses such as measles, mumps, human parainfluenza, canine distemper, Hendra, and Nipah viruses, which cause a tremendous global health burden. The ability of paramyxoviral glycoproteins to merge viral and host membranes allows entry of the viral genome into host cells, as well as cell–cell fusion, an important contributor to disease progression. Recent molecular and structural advances in our understanding of the paramyxovirus membrane fusion machinery gave rise to various therapeutic approaches aiming at inhibiting viral infection, spread, and cytopathic effects. These therapeutic approaches include peptide mimics, antibodies, and small molecule inhibitors with various levels of success at inhibiting viral entry, increasing the potential of effective antiviral therapeutic development.

Relevance. In the instructions for the use of vaccines for dogs, there is a clause prescribing mandatory anthelmintic treatment of the animal before vaccination. This is really a correct indication, since it is well known that helminthiasis affects the animal’s body, disrupting many metabolic processes and causing a number of pathological changes in the body. Helminthic infestations affect the level of immunity of the animal by changing the level of immunoglobulins, causing changes in the T- and B-systems of immunity. However, there is no data available in the literature describing how helminths affect the production of post-vaccination antibodies. This paper describes an experiment aimed at establishing how toxocara invasion affects the formation of post- vaccination immunity against canine distemper and parvovirus enteritis in dogs.Methods. The research was conducted in a shelter for neglected animals in Vitebsk. The object of research was two dogs aged 4 years and seven puppies aged 1–2 months. The animals were divided into two groups. The first group included one adult dog and four puppies. The second group included an adult dog and three puppies. Animals of both groups were vaccinated against carnivorous plague and parvovirus enteritis, but only animals of the second group were dewormed.Results. By evaluating the results of the study, it was found that helminthic invasion really hinders the development of post-vaccination immunity.

Background and Aim: The emerging concerns regarding the new Coronavirus's ability to cause infection in pets has led to animal testing and worrisome findings reported all over the world in domesticated and wild animals. This study aimed to investigate severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV)-2 by quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction in dog and cat samples with the clinical presentation for respiratory or gastrointestinal disease in Brazil. Materials and Methods: One hundred and twenty-five samples were collected from 12 states of Brazil that originated from the gastrointestinal, upper respiratory tract, and other sites, including some pools of samples from before the onset of the pandemic including blood and/or urine samples. They were tested for RT-PCR detection of respiratory or gastrointestinal pathogens through Respiratory or Diarrhea RT-PCR Panels in the TECSA (Tecnologia em Saninade Animal - Animal Health Technology) Veterinary Medicine Laboratory. This work was conducted in compliance with ethical standards. Results: Seven different microorganisms that can cause respiratory and/or gastrointestinal clinical signs were detected in cats (Feline Coronavirus [FCoV], Feline Parvovirus, Feline Leukemia Virus, Feline Calicivirus, Mycoplasma felis, Campylobacter spp., and Cryptosporidium spp.) and three in dogs (canine distemper virus, Cryptosporidium spp., and Babesia spp.). Conclusion: Although the samples corresponded to the beginning of coronavirus disease-19 spread in Brazil and clinically correlated with the expected viral replication sites, none of the animals tested positive for SARS-CoV-2; reassuringly, four cats tested positive or FCoV none of them were positive for SARS-CoV2. The epidemiological surveillance of SARS-CoV-2 in pets is considered a one health issue, important for monitoring the disease evolution, spread and minimizing the animal-human health impacts, and directing Public Health Policies.

The decreasing tiger population in the world ecosystem is a threat to nature conservation. Canine distemper virus (CDV) is a deadly virus found in the tiger worldwide, one of the vital causes of their extinction. This paper figure outs the influence of CDV on tiger populations. We have developed and studied a delayed eco-epidemiological tiger-dog/wild carnivores predator-prey model with CDV infection in tiger and dog/wild carnivores considering incubation delay $$\tau$$ for CDV infected dogs and wild carnivores. We studied the existence, boundedness, stability, and bifurcation of the solutions. Our analysis shows that the coexistence equilibrium is locally stable for all incubation delay $$\tau >\tau ^+$$ . The system switches its stability as incubation delay crosses its critical value $$\tau =\tau ^+$$ , perceives oscillations, and Hopf bifurcation occurs in the system for all $$\tau

Hypertrophic osteodystrophy is an uncommon orthopaedic disease that affects young, growing dogs. Aetiology is currently unknown; however, several unproven etiologies have been theorised in the literature including canine distemper virus, previous vaccination, hereditary causes and auto-immune disorders. Affected animals often present with varying degrees of lameness, lethargy, pyrexia and/or distal metaphyseal swelling of affected limbs. An index of suspicion is based on clinical signs. Confirmation is obtained with radiographs of the affected limb(s) by the presence of a "double physis," or a radiolucent line that is parallel to the physis. Treatment varies depending on degree affected, but generally consists of anti-inflammatory steroids, pain medications, gastrointestinal support, nutritional management and appropriate supportive care. Critically affected patients require intensive monitoring and more aggressive supportive care for prevention of life-threatening sequalae. Prognosis is very favourable with mildly and moderately affected patients, but good to guarded in severely affected patients.

Klinik olarak canine distemper virüs (CDV) teşhisi konulan köpeklerde enfeksiyonun hem sürüntü örneklerinde ve hem de postmortem alınan doku örneklerinde hızlı teşhisine yönelik real-time RT-PCR metodu çalışılarak, viral nükleik asit tespitine dayalı real-time RT-PCR metodu ile histopatolojik yöntemin karşılaştırması amaçlanmıştır. Çalışmanın materyalini, ateş, gözyaşı akıntısı ile solunum, sindirim ve sinir sistemi enfeksiyonlarına ait klinik bulgulara sahip, CDV enfeksiyonu klinik tanısı ile tedaviye başlanmış, ancak tedaviye yanıt vermeden ölen köpeklerden histopatolojik bulgulara göre CDV teşhisi konulmuş köpeklere ait beyin, beyincik, karaciğer, akciğer, dalak, böbrek, taban yastığı ve kan ile tonsil, burun ve gözden alınan sürüntü örnekleri oluşturdu. Histopatolojik incelemelerde CDV enfeksiyonu için karakteristik sayılan intrasitoplazmik ve intranükleer inklüzyon cisimciği belirlenen köpeklerden nekropsi sırasında alınmış sürüntü örneklerinde viral nükleik asit varlığı incelendiğinde tonsillerden alınan sürüntülerin tamamında, burun ve konjunktivadan alınan örneklerin iki tanesinde CDV nükleik asit kopyalarının belirlendiği, kan örneklerinde ise viral nükleik asit belirlenemediği görüldü. Köpeklerde görülen klinik bulgular hastalığı düşündürse de kesin teşhis için kullanılan virolojik ve histopatolojik incelemeler uzun zaman almaktadır. Bu durum viral nükleik asitlerin çoğaltılması esasına dayalı PCR yöntemlerini ön plana çıkarmakta, PCR yöntemleri içerisinde de uygulayıcı hatasını minimize eden, hızlı sonuç veren ve virüs sayısının tahmin edilebildiği real-time RT-PCR uygulamalarının önemini artırmaktadır.

Dolphin morbillivirus (DMV) is a pathogen of great concern in free-ranging cetaceans. Confirmation and staging of morbillivirus infections rely on histology and immunohistochemistry (IHC), following molecular detection. As at the present time no specific antibodies (Abs) against DMV are available, two heterologous Abs have been used worldwide for the examinations of morbillivirus infections of cetaceans. One is a monoclonal Ab (MoAb) prepared against the N protein of canine distemper virus (CDV), whereas the other is a polyclonal Ab raised in rabbits against rinderpest virus (RPV). Both Abs are known to show cross-reactivity with DMV. In this study we compared the labelling quality and the neuroanatomical distribution of staining with these two Abs by means of IHC analysis. To this end, serial sections of the target organs from ten free-ranging stranded cetaceans, previously diagnosed as being infected with DMV by PCR and/or serology, were subjected to IHC. The brain, lungs and lymph nodes of one animal were found to be positive with both Abs. From two other animals, the brain and the spleen, respectively, tested positive only with the polyclonal Ab. In the positive brain tissues, multifocal immunostaining was observed, with similar staining location and extent, with the two antibodies tested. Our results suggest that the polyclonal anti-RPV Ab might have a stronger binding activity to DMV than the anti-CDV MoAb. Nevertheless, the elaboration and use of specific anti-DMV Abs might be essential to guarantee conclusive results in diagnostic and pathogenetic investigations.

Morbilliviruses are highly contagious pathogens. The Morbillivirus genus includes measles virus, canine distemper virus (CDV), phocine distemper virus (PDV), peste des petits ruminants virus, rinderpest virus, and feline morbillivirus. We detected a novel porcine morbillivirus (PoMV) as a putative cause of fetal death, encephalitis, and placentitis among swine by using histopathology, metagenomic sequencing, and in situ hybridization. Phylogenetic analyses showed PoMV is most closely related to CDV (62.9% nt identities) and PDV (62.8% nt identities). We observed intranuclear inclusions in neurons and glial cells of swine fetuses with encephalitis. Cellular tropism is similar to other morbilliviruses, and PoMV viral RNA was detected in neurons, respiratory epithelium, and lymphocytes. This study provides fundamental knowledge concerning the pathology, genome composition, transmission, and cellular tropism of a novel pathogen within the genus Morbillivirus and opens the door to a new, applicable disease model to drive research forward.

Through the present work we succeeded to prepare live attenuated and inactivated canine distemper (CD) using Snyder Hill strain and canine parvo (CP) vaccines using CPV type 2a srain either in mono or bivalent formulae aiming to establish the most safe and potent vaccine formula that enable puppies to withstood both virus infections. It was found that monovalent and bivalent attenuated vaccines induced higher and longer duration of immunity, showed protective CD antibody titers (64-128 by SNT and 2.4log10 by ELISA) up to 12 months post vaccination while inactivated ones induced lower and shorter protective immune levels (32 by SNT and l.8 log10 by ELISA) for 10 months post vaccination. Also, CP antibody levels remained with high levels (64-128 by SNT and 2.5 by ELISA) up to 12 months as induced by attenuated mono and bivalent vaccine and with lower protective values (32-64 by SNT and 1.5- 1.9log10 by ELISA) by inactivated vaccines up to 11 months. Anyhow, it could be said that the bivalent CD and CP attenuated or inactivated vaccines can provide vaccinated puppies with specific protective antibodies against the two viruses.

This retrospective observational study reports the enteric organisms detected in dogs in Western Australia that had a faecal PCR (fPCR) submitted to a commercial veterinary laboratory. Of 2025 fPCR results, Clostridium perfringens alpha toxin gene was most frequently detected (87.2%), followed by Campylobacter spp. (37.8%), canine parvovirus (10.5%), Giardia spp. (9.7%), Salmonella spp. (7.0%), canine enteric coronavirus (2.3%), and canine distemper virus (0.3%). C.perfringens alpha toxin gene and Campylobacter spp. were the most common organisms co-detected. There was no statistically significant seasonal variation. Further studies are required to elucidate the role these organisms play in gastrointestinal disease in dogs.

Canine adenoviruses (CAVs) are of two types: canine adenovirus type 1 (CAV-1), which causes infectious canine hepatitis, and canine adenovirus type 2 (CAV-2), which is mainly associated with the respiratory type of disease in dogs. Due to the widespread use of modified live vaccines to control canine adenoviral infections and subsequently reduced disease incidence, CAVs are often neglected by clinicians. Although a number of studies are available about CAV-1 prevalence in India, only meagre information is available about CAV-2. This study reports the CAV-2 infection in a vaccinated dog with neurological and respiratory symptoms which was found negative for other canine pathogens like canine distemper virus and canine parvovirus. The virus was successfully isolated from rectal swab in MDCK cells and characterized by immunofluorescence assay and virus neutralization test. On phylogenetic analysis of partial E3 region, the Indian CAV-2 grouped in a separate clade different from established subgroups. An insertion of "G" nucleotide was reported at nucleotide (nt.) position 1077 in the E3 gene of Indian CAV-2 isolates which led to a frameshift in the coding region of E3 gene thereby imparting additional eleven amino acids to its C-terminal end in comparison to isolates from other parts of the world. This may have an implication on the functional role of E3 protein inside the cell. This study reinforces the unique signature insertion in the E3 gene of Indian CAV-2 and is the second study in the world to report the association of CAV-2 with neurological disease in dogs.

Antibody mimetics may be used for various biomedical applications, especially those for which conventional antibodies are ineffective. In this study, we developed a smaller molecular chicken IgY mimetic peptide (IgY-peptide) based on the complementarity-determining regions (CDRs) of the anti-canine parvovirus (CPV) IgY-scFv prepared previously. The mimetic peptide showed no cross-reactivity with canine distemper virus (CDV) and canine coronavirus (CCV) and showed excellent protective properties for Crandell-Rees Feline Kidney (CRFK) cells against CPV. This study is the first attempt to develop a mimetic IgY-peptide and demonstrates the ease and feasibility in generating such a novel antibody-like functional molecule for biomedical purposes.

We examined the cerebellum and cerebrum of 4 vaccinated dogs, 3–60-mo-old, that displayed clinical signs of canine distemper virus (CDV) infection, and died 7–40 d after developing neurologic signs. The main histologic lesions were demyelination, gliosis, meningitis, perivascular lymphocytic cuffing, and inclusion bodies. These lesions were similar in all 4 cases regardless of the time since vaccination, except that meningoencephalitis and gliosis were subacute in 3 dogs and chronic in 1 dog. However, these differences did not appear to be related to their vaccination status. Immunohistologically, a CDV-positive immunoreaction was seen mainly in astrocytes, neurons and their axons, lymphocytes around and in the blood vessels of the pia mater and choroid plexus, ependymal cells of each ventricle, and the cells of the choroid plexus. The histologic and immunohistologic changes were similar in the cerebellum and cerebrum. The genetic characterization of the virus strains in 2 of these naturally occurring canine distemper cases confirmed that they were South American wild-type strains (Kiki and Uy251) belonging to the EU1/SA1 lineage. These strains are not included in the commercial CDV vaccines available in Uruguay.

The endangered Bengal tiger (Panthera tigris tigris) is a keystone species playing an essential role in ecology as well as in the social and spiritual lives of the Himalayan people. The latest estimate of the Bengal tiger population in Bhutan accounts for 103 individuals. Infectious organisms, including zoonotic parasites causing high burden in human health, have received little attention as a cause of mortality in tigers. Taeniosis/cysticercosis, caused by the cestode Taenia solium, is considered one of the major neglected tropical diseases in Southeast Asia. We present here a case of neurocysticercosis in a Bengal tiger showing advanced neurological disease outside Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan. After palliative care, the animal died, and necropsy revealed multiple small cysts in the brain. Here we show the presence of two genetic variants of T. solium in the parasite material collected based on PCR and sequencing of the complete cox1 and cytB genes. The sequences form a discrete branch within the Asia plus Madagascar cluster of the parasite. On other hand, tests for feline morbillivirus, feline calicivirus, canine distemper virus, Nipah, rabies, Japanese encephalitis, feline leukaemia and feline immunodeficiency virus were negative. In contrast, PCR for feline herpesvirus was positive and a latex agglutination test revealed an elevated antibody titer against Toxoplasma gondii (titer 1:256). The molecular examination of taeniid eggs isolated from the tiger faeces produced sequences for which the highest homology in GenBank is between 92% and 94% with T. regis and T. hydatigena. This fatal case of T. solium neurocysticercosis, a disease previously unrecorded in tigers or other non-domestic felids, demonstrates an anthropogenically driven transmission of a deadly pathogen which could become a serious threat to the tiger population., Graphical abstract Image 1, Highlights • This is the first report of a fatal infection with Taenia solium in a Bengal tiger. • There is a need for research into infectious disease threats to tigers in Bhutan. • The importance of a ‘One Health’ approach is demonstrated and recommended. • Non-domestic felids.

Canine spontaneous cancers may offer greater fidelity than rodent models in advancing clinical immunotherapies. Boxers in particular are distinguished as study subjects by their popularity, and high incidence of human-relevant cancers. Further, the MHC class I allele DLA-88*034:01, with a known motif, dominates the breed, facilitating discovery of shared CTL responses against mutation-origin neoepitopes by standard prediction methods. We experimentally confirmed the allomorph's binding motif by developing an MHC surface stabilization assay. The assay validated four DLA-88*034:01-presented peptides from canine distemper virus, ubiquitously administered in routine vaccines, for positive controls in future CTL studies. In turn, these viral peptides substantiated motif-based prediction for DLA-88*034:01. The study adds new tools for studying neoepitope-specific CTL in Boxers to foster canine comparative oncology.

This study aimed to investigate the diagnostic value of thiol/disulfide homeostasis (TDH) and ischemia-modified albumin (IMA) levels in evaluating oxidative stress in dogs with canine distemper. The study materials consisted of 24 cross-breed dogs: 18 dogs with canine distemper (CD group) and 6 healthy dogs as the control. Blood samples for analysis of antioxidant-oxidant parameters were taken from both groups. In addition to TDH parameters (native thiol [NT], total thiol [TT], and disulfide [Ds] levels and Ds/NT, Ds/TT, and NT/TT ratios), IMA and albumin (ALB) levels were also determined in the blood serum of the groups. The IMA levels of the CD group were significantly higher than the control group (P, U ovom je radu istraživana dijagnostička vrijednost tiol-disulfidne homeostaze (TDH) i razine albumina modificiranog ishemijom (IMA) u procjeni oksidacijskog stresa u pasa sa štenećakom. Uključena su 24 psa križanca: 18 pasa sa štenećakom (skupina CD) i 6 zdravih pasa koji su bili kontrolna skupina. U obje su skupine uzeti uzorci krvi za analizu antioksidacijskih i oksidacijskih pokazatelja. Osim TDH pokazatelja (razine nativnog tiola [NT], ukupnog tiola [TT] i disulfida [Ds] te omjeri Ds/NT, Ds/TT i NT/TT), u krvnom serumu obiju skupina određeni su i IMA te albumin (ALB). Razine IMA-e u CD skupini bile su znakovito veće nego u kontrolnoj skupini (P < 0,05). Antioksidacijski pokazatelji (NT, TT) i oksidacijski pokazatelji (Ds, Ds/NT i Ds/TT) pokazali su međusobnu znakovitu pozitivnu korelaciju (P < 0,01). Područja ispod ROC krivulje IMA-e, Ds/NT i Ds/TT bila su 0,78, 0,62 i 0,62. Najviše razine IMA-e, Ds, Ds/NT i Ds/TT te niske razine NT-a, TT-a, NT/TT-a i ALB-a u pasa sa štenećakom mogu se upotrijebiti u procjeni oksidacijskog stresa uzrokovanog tom bolešću. Ukupno gledano, dijagnostička svojstva IMA-e, Ds/NT, i Ds/TT za otkrivanje povećanog oksidacijskog stresa bila su slična, s tim da je najprikladniji bio IMA.

Dog population studies were carried out in Agbowo area, Ibadan, Oyo state using the street Counting Technique and Questionnaire Survey approaches. 17 dogs were observed on average through street counting technique, 719 houses and structures were identified both inhabited and uninhabited on 42 street networks. 25 households with 441 inhabitants responded positively to Questionnaire Survey. The ratio of household dogs to man and street dogs to man were 1:11 and 1:25 respectively. The level of rabies vaccination observed was 33.3% while only 5% of the dogs were immunized against canine distemper, hepatitis and leptospirosis. Four people were bitten either by their dog or other people's dog. 68% of the household dogs were outdoor most of the time and unleashed deriving their food from family food waste and scavenging about. In view of these observations there is need to embark on a nationwide dog population census for effective veterinary healthcare delivery system. Key words: Dog population, rabies control

The leopard cat (Prionailurus bengalensis) was listed as an endangered species under the Wildlife Conservation Act in Taiwan in 2009. However, no study has evaluated the possible direct or indirect effects of pathogens on the Taiwanese leopard cat population. Here, we targeted viral pathogens, including carnivore protoparvovirus 1 (genus Protoparvovirus), feline leukemia virus (FeLV), feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV), coronaviruses (CoVs), and canine distemper virus (CDV), through molecular screening. The spatial and temporal dynamics of the target pathogens were evaluated. Through sequencing and phylogenetic analysis, we clarified the phylogenetic relationship of viral pathogens isolated from leopard cats and domestic carnivores. Samples from 23 live-trapped leopard cats and 29 that were found dead were collected from 2015 to 2019 in Miaoli County in northwestern Taiwan. Protoparvoviruses and CoVs were detected in leopard cats, and their prevalence (95% confidence interval) was 63.5% (50.4%–76.6%) and 8.8% (0%–18.4%), respectively. Most of the protoparvovirus sequences amplified from Taiwanese leopard cats and domestic carnivores were identical. All of the CoV sequences amplified from leopard cats were identified as feline CoV. No spatial or temporal aggregation of protoparvovirus infection in leopard cats was found in the sampling area, indicating a wide distribution of protoparvoviruses in the leopard cat habitat. We consider sympatric domestic carnivores to be the probable primary reservoir for the identified pathogens. We strongly recommend management of protoparvoviruses and feline CoV in the leopard cat habitat, particularly vaccination programs and population control measures for free-roaming dogs and cats. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s00705-020-04904-z.

This case report discusses Type I hypersensitivity in ferrets following exposure to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) inoculum, observed during a study investigating the efficacy of candidate COVID-19 vaccines. Following a comprehensive internal root-cause investigation, it was hypothesized that prior prime-boost immunization of ferrets with a commercial canine C3 vaccine to protect against the canine distemper virus had resulted in primary immune response to fetal bovine serum (FBS) in the C3 preparation. Upon intranasal exposure to SARS-CoV-2 virus cultured in medium containing FBS, an allergic airway response occurred in 6 out of 56 of the ferrets. The 6 impacted ferrets were randomly dispersed across study groups, including different COVID-19 vaccine candidates, routes of vaccine candidate administration, and controls (placebo). The root-cause investigation and subsequent analysis determined that the allergic reaction was unrelated to the COVID-19 vaccine candidates under evaluation. Histological assessment suggested that the allergic response was characterized by eosinophilic airway disease; increased serum immunoglobulin levels reactive to FBS further suggested this response was caused by immune priming to FBS present in the C3 vaccine. This was further supported by in vivo studies demonstrating ferrets administered diluted FBS also presented clinical signs consistent with a hyperallergic response, while clinical signs were absent in ferrets that received a serum-free SARS-CoV-2 inoculum. It is therefore recommended that vaccine studies in higher order animals should consider the impact of welfare vaccination and use serum-free inoculum whenever possible.

RNA viruses rapidly mutate, which can result in increased virulence, increased escape from vaccine protection, and false negative detection results. Targeted detection methods have a limited ability to detect unknown viruses and often provide insufficient data to detect coinfections or identify antigenic variants. Random, deep sequencing is a method that can more fully detect and characterize RNA viruses and is often coupled with molecular techniques or culture methods for viral enrichment. Viral culture coupled with third-generation sequencing were tested for the ability to detect and characterize RNA viruses. Cultures of bovine viral diarrhea virus, canine distemper virus, epizootic hemorrhagic disease virus, infectious bronchitis virus, two influenza A viruses, and porcine respiratory and reproductive syndrome virus were sequenced on the MinION platform using a random, reverse primer in a strand-switching reaction, coupled with PCR-based barcoding. Reads were taxonomically classified and used for reference-based sequence building using a stock personal computer. This method accurately detected and identified complete coding sequence genomes with a minimum of 20× coverage depth for all seven viruses, including a sample containing two viruses. Each lineage-typing region had at least 26× coverage depth for all viruses. Furthermore, analyzing the canine distemper virus sample through a pipeline devoid of canine distemper virus reference sequences modeled the ability of this protocol to detect unknown viruses. These results show the ability of this technique to detect and characterize dsRNA, negative- and positive-sense ssRNA, nonsegmented, and segmented RNA viruses.

The complete nucleotide genome sequence for Canine Distemper Virus strain CDVHN5 isolated from a dog in Hanoi, Vietnam, in 2018, was determined and phylogenetically analyzed. The complete genome size of the CDVHN5 strain was 15,690 nucleotides, encoding for 02 non-structural proteins (C and V protein) and 06 structural proteins (large protein (L), haemagglutinin (H), phosphoprotein (P), nucleocapsid protein (N), fusion protein (F) và matrix protein (M). In the genome, base A accounted for the highest percentage of 30.5%, consisted of 4,798 nucleotides. Base T consisted of 4,177 nucleotides, accounted for 26.62%. Base G consisted of 3,450 nucleotides, accounted for 21.7%. And base C consisted of 3,310 nucleotides, accounted for 21.1%. The percentage of A+T was 57.2%, higher than that of G+C (42.8%). Nucleotide sequencing analysis showed that the CDVHN5 strain had the highest similarity (99.7%) compared with the virulent strain collected in Ho Chi Minh City in 2014 (CDV/dog/HCM/33/140816) that belongs to genotype Asia-1. Comparison to other genotypes, the CDVHN5 strain had a low percentage of nucleotide and amino acid similarities, from 92.4% to 96%, among them, the lowest rate with two strains of vaccine virus Onderstepoort-US-2002 belonging to genotype America-1 and CDV2784-IT-2013 strain of genotype Arctic (92.4%). Phylogenetic analysis showed that the CDVHN5 strain in Hanoi belonged to genotype Asia-1, similar to Chinese, Taiwan, Thailand and Korean strains. To date, the only full-length CDV sequence from Ho Chi Minh City was sequenced and published in Genebank, no data from Northern Vietnam. So that, the addition of whole genome sequence of CDV in Vietnam is essential.

Background Canine morbilivirus (canine distemper virus, CDV) is a highly contagious pathogen associated with high morbidity and mortality in susceptible carnivores. Although there are CDV vaccines available, the disease poses a huge threat to dogs and wildlife hosts due to vaccine failures and lack of effective treatment. Thus, the development of therapeutics is an urgent need to achieve rapid outbreak control and reduce mortality in target species. Gene silencing by RNA interference has emerged as a promising therapeutic approach against different human and animal viruses. In this study, plasmid-based short hairpin RNAs (shRNAs) against three different regions in either CDV nucleoprotein (N), or large polymerase (L) genes and recombinant adenovirus-expressing N-specific multi-shRNAs were generated. Viral cytopathic effect, virus titration, plaque-forming unit reduction, and real-time quantitative RT-PCR analysis were used to check the efficiency of constructs against CDV. Results In CDV-infected VerodogSLAM cells, shRNA-expressing plasmids targeting the N gene markedly inhibited the CDV replication in a dose-dependent manner, with viral genomes and titers being decreased by over 99%. Transfection of plasmid-based shRNAs against the L gene displayed weaker inhibition of viral RNA level and virus yield as compared to CDV N shRNAs. A combination of shRNAs targeting three sites in the N gene considerably reduced CDV RNA and viral titers, but their effect was not synergistic. Recombinant adenovirus-expressing multiple shRNAs against CDV N gene achieved a highly efficient knockdown of CDV N mRNAs and successful inhibition of CDV replication. Conclusions We found that this strategy had strong silencing effects on CDV replication in vitro. Our findings indicate that the delivery of shRNAs using plasmid or adenovirus vectors potently inhibits CDV replication and provides a basis for the development of therapeutic strategies for clinical trials.

Abstract Canine distemper virus (CDV) infection causes mass mortality in diverse carnivore species. For effective virus surveillance, rapid and sensitive assays are needed to detect CDV in field samples. In this study, after BABL/c mice were immunized with recombinant CDV-fusion (F) protein, monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) against recombinant CDV-F protein (designated 1A5, 1A6, and 7D5) were produced using traditional hybridoma cell technology. Next, capture antibody (1A6, 800 ng/well) and horseradish peroxidase (HRP)–conjugated detection antibody (HRP-7D5, 1:100, 500 ng/well) were used in a double monoclonal antibody–based sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for CDV detection after optimization of both mAb amounts per well using a checkerboard titration test. Based on sandwich ELISA test results for 120 known CDV-negative samples, the cutoff value for a positive result was set to an OD450 nm value ≥ 0.196. As compared with test results obtained from commercial immune colloidal gold test strips, the low limits of detection for the two assays were revealed to be 100 TCID50 per 100 μL. In addition, the sandwich ELISA agreed 100% and 96.4% with commercial immune colloidal gold test strips when testing serum and stool samples. The sandwich ELISA assay provided statistically similar CDV detection. Thus, the sandwich ELISA developed here to detect CDV in fecal and serum samples provided good sensitivity, high specificity, and good reproducibility and should serve as an ideal method for large-scale surveillance of CDV infections in carnivores. Key points • Three CDV mAbs that recognized different epitopes and bound to virion were generated. • The sandwich ELISA based mAbs to detect CDV in fecal and serum samples was developed. • The sandwich ELISA is an ideal method for detecting CDV infections in the field.

The viral cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) epitope peptides presented by classical MHC-I molecules require the assembly of a peptide-MHC-I-β2m (aka pMHC-I) trimolecular complex for TCR recognition, which is the critical activation link for triggering antiviral T cell immunity. Ursidae includes 5 genera and 8 species; however, research on T cell immunology in this family, especially structural immunology, is lacking. In this study, the structure of the key trimolecular complex pMHC-1 (aka pAime-128), which binds a peptide from canine distemper virus, was solved for the first time using giant panda as a representative species of Ursidae. The structural characteristics of the giant panda pMHC-I complex, including the unique pockets in the peptide-binding groove (PBG), were analyzed in detail. Comparing the panda pMHC-I to others in the bear family and extending the comparison to other mammals revealed distinct features. The interaction between MHC-I andβ2m, the features of pAime-128 involved in TCR docking and CD8 binding, the anchor sites in the PBG, and the CTL epitopes of potential viruses that infect pandas were concretely clarified. Unique features of pMHC-I viral antigen presentation in the panda were revealed by solving the three-dimensional structure of pAime-128. The distinct characteristics of pAime-128 indicate an unusual event that emerged during the evolution of the MHC system in the bear family. These results provide a new platform for research on panda CTL immunity and the design of vaccines for application in the bear family.IMPORTANCEUrsidae includes 5 genera and 8 species; however, the study of its immunology, especially structural immunology, is extremely rare to date. In this paper, we first crystallized the key complex pMHC-I, taking the giant panda as its representative species. Structural characteristics of the giant panda pMHC-I complexes, contains the unique pockets of PBG were analyzed in detail. Comparison of the panda pMHC-I in the bear family and other mammals, almost definite features was displayed. Meanwhile, the interaction between HC and LV, the unique features of pMHC-I in the CD8 binding and TCR docking, validation of anchor site in the PBG, and epitopes of potential viruses infected with the pandas, were concretely clarified. These unique characteristics of pMHC-I clearly indicate an unusual situation during the evolution of MHC molecules in the endangered pandas. These results also provide a novel platform for further study of panda T cell immunology and vaccines.

A juvenile raccoon was euthanized because of severe neurologic signs. At postmortem examination, no significant gross lesions were present. Histologic evaluation demonstrated nonsuppurative encephalitis in thalamus, brainstem, and hippocampus, cerebellar Purkinje cell loss, as well as poliomyelitis and demyelination of the spinal cord. Parvovirus antigen–specific immunohistochemistry revealed immunopositive neurons in the brainstem, cerebral cortex, and hippocampus. A few Purkinje cells were also immunopositive. DNA extracted from formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded brain tissue (thalamus, hippocampus, cerebral cortex) yielded a positive signal using PCR targeting both feline and canine parvovirus. Sequencing analyses from a fragment of the NS1 gene and a portion of the VP2 gene confirmed the presence of DNA of a recent canine parvovirus variant (CPV-2a–like virus) in the cerebellum. Our case provides evidence that a recent canine parvovirus (CPV) strain ( Carnivore protoparvovirus 1) can infect cerebral and diencephalic neurons and cause encephalitis in an otherwise healthy raccoon. Parvovirus-induced encephalitis is a differential diagnosis of rabies and canine distemper in raccoons with neurologic signs.

Predicting the emergence of novel infectious diseases requires an understanding of how pathogens infect and efficiently spread in alternative naive hosts. A pathogen's ability to adapt to a new host (i.e. host shift) oftentimes is constrained by host phylogeny, due to limits in the molecular mechanisms available to overcome host-specific immune defenses (Longdon, Brockhurst, Russell, Welch, & Jiggins, 2014). Some pathogens, such as RNA viruses, however, have a propensity to jump hosts due to rapid mutation rates. For example, canine distemper virus (CDV) infects a broad range of terrestrial carnivores, as well as non-carnivore species worldwide, with a host range that is distributed across 5 orders and 22 families (Beineke, Baumgartner, & Wohlsein, 2015). In 1993-1994, a severe CDV outbreak infected multiple carnivore host species in Serengeti National Park, causing widespread mortality and the subsequent decline of the African lion (Panthera leo) population (Roelke-Parker et al., 1996). While previous studies established domestic dogs (Canis lupus familiaris) as the disease reservoir, the precise route of transmission to lions remained a mystery, and a number of wild carnivore species could have facilitated viral evolution and spread. In this issue of Molecular Ecology, Weckworth et al. 2020 used whole genome viral sequences obtained from four carnivore species during the CDV outbreak, in combination with epidemiological data, to illuminate the pathway and evolutionary mechanisms leading to disease emergence in Serengeti lions.

Made available in DSpace on 2021-06-25T12:23:45Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 0 Previous issue date: 2020-10-23 Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico (CNPq) Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior (CAPES) Brazilian institute: Financing of Studies and Projects (FINEP) Brazilian institute: Araucaria Foundation (FAP/PR) Funadesp The crab-eating fox (Cerdocyon thous) is a small wild mammal present in all Brazilian biomes and in some countries of South America. This study aimed to verify the involvement of viral infectious agents in the death of a wild crab-eating fox pup (Cerdocyon thous) in Brazil. The Center for Medicine and Research of Wild Animals of the Universidade Estadual Paulista received a free-living crab-eating fox aged approximately 21 days and apparently healthy. After 13 days, the animal presented anorexia, diarrhea, fever, prostration, and neurological signs progressing to death with an inconclusive diagnosis. In a retrospective study, tissue fragments stored at - 80 degrees C were used to identify nucleic acids from major canine viruses, such as canine parvovirus-2 (CPV-2), canine adenovirus A types 1 and 2, canid alphaherpesvirus 1, and canine distemper virus. The amplified product with the expected length for CPV-2 was obtained from the heart fragment. After performing nucleotide (nt) sequencing of the amplicon, it was possible to demonstrate that the crab-eating fox strain exhibited high (99.8%) nt identity with the CPV-2b prototype (CPV-39 strain). Additionally, deduced amino acid (aa) sequence analysis showed the GAT codon for the aa Asp (D) at position 426 of the CPV-2 viral protein VP2, which characterizes the subtype 2b. To the best of the authors' knowledge, this report describes the first detection of CPV-2b DNA in tissue fragments from a crab-eating fox. Univ Estadual Londrina, Lab Anim Virol, Dept Vet Prevent Med, Celso Garcia Cid Rd,PR455 Km 380,POB 10011, BR-86057970 Londrina, Parana, Brazil Univ Estadual Londrina, Multiuser Anim Hlth Lab, Mol Biol Unit, Dept Vet Prevent Med, Celso Garcia Cid Rd,PR455 Km 380,POB 10011, BR-86057970 Londrina, Parana, Brazil Univ Pitagoras Unopar, Post Grad Program Anim Hlth & Prod, Arapongas, Parana, Brazil Univ Estadual Paulista, Vet Hosp, Ctr Med & Res Wild Anim, POB 560, BR-18618000 Botucatu, SP, Brazil Univ Estadual Paulista, Vet Hosp, Anim Pathol, POB 560, BR-18618000 Botucatu, SP, Brazil Univ Estadual Paulista, Vet Hosp, Ctr Med & Res Wild Anim, POB 560, BR-18618000 Botucatu, SP, Brazil Univ Estadual Paulista, Vet Hosp, Anim Pathol, POB 560, BR-18618000 Botucatu, SP, Brazil

The registration of adverse events after the use of immunological veterinary medicinal products (IVMP) is the aim of the vigilance reporting system in Switzerland. Adverse events comprise suspected adverse reactions and lack of expected efficacy. Since the Institute of virology and immunology (IVI) is the competent authority for the regulation of immunological VMP in Switzerland, the reporting system is administrated by the IVI. In 2019, 137 reports concerning authorized immunological VMP were received (15% less compared to 2018). While most of the reports were submitted by the marketing authorization holders (56%), practicing veterinary surgeons contributed to the reporting system, too (40%). This corresponds to an increase of 22% of reported adverse events by the practicing veterinary surgeons compared to the previous year. Private persons (4%) submitted five reports. In comparison to 2018, in 2019 79% of the adverse events were reported by marketing authorization holders and 18% by veterinarians. Dogs (55%) and cats (20%) were mainly affected. Further reports were related to cattle (13%) and horses (5%). Recently, the numbers of reports concerning dogs (+12%) and cats (+4%) have considerably increased. Most of the reports were based on the application of vaccines against canine distemper, hepatitis, parvovirosis and parainfluenza in combination with leptospirosis in dogs as well as cat flu and feline panleukopenia in cats. In 34% of the submitted cases, the causality assessment between the vaccination and the reaction described was evaluated as probable.Das Ziel des Vaccinovigilance-Meldesystems ist die Erfassung von unerwünschten Arzneimittelwirkungen (UAW) nach der Anwendung von immunologischen Tierarzneimitteln (TAM) in der Schweiz. Dazu zählt neben UAW auch eine vermeintlich ungenügende Wirksamkeit der Impfstoffe. Als Zulassungsstelle für immunologische TAM ist das Institut für Virologie und Immunologie (IVI) zuständig für die Betreuung des Meldesystems. 137 UAW Meldungen zu zugelassenen immunologischen TAM wurden im Jahr 2019 registriert (15% weniger als 2018). Während die meisten UAW über die jeweiligen Zulassungsinhaber erfolgten (56%), nahmen auch praktizierende Tierärzte (40%) ihre Meldepflicht wahr. Dies bedeutet eine Zunahme der Meldungen von Tierärzten von 22% gegenüber dem Vorjahr. Fünf Meldungen wurden von Privatpersonen eingereicht (4%). Im Vergleich dazu wurden 2018 79% der UAW von Zulassungsinhabern gemeldet und 18% von Tierärzten. 2019 betrafen die Berichte vorwiegend Hunde (55%) und Katzen (20%). Weitere Meldungen betrafen Rinder (13%) und Pferde (5%). Aktuell wurden deutlich mehr Meldungen zu Hunden (+12%) und Katzen (+4%) registriert. Die meisten UAW basierten auf der Anwendung von Impfstoffen gegen Staupe, Hepatitis, Parvovirose und Parainfluenza in Kombination mit Leptospirose beim Hund sowie Katzenschnupfen und -seuche bei der Katze. In 34% aller eingegangenen Fälle wurde ein kausaler Zusammenhang zwischen der Impfung und der Impfreaktion als wahrscheinlich beurteilt.L’enregistrement des effets indésirables après utilisation de ­médicaments vétérinaires immunologiques est l’objectif du système de notification de vigilance en Suisse. Les effets indésirables comprennent les effets indésirables suspectés et le manque quant à l’efficacité attendue. L’Institut de virologie et d’immunologie (IVI) étant l’autorité compétente pour la réglementation des produits vétérinaires immunologiques en Suisse, le système de déclaration est administré par l’IVI. En 2019, 137 rapports concernant des produits vétérinaires immunologiques autorisées ont été reçus (15% de moins par rapport à 2018). Alors que la plupart des rapports ont été soumis par les titulaires de l’autorisation de mise sur le marché (56%), les vétérinaires en exercice ont également contribué au système de déclaration (40%). Cela correspond à une augmentation de 22% des effets indésirables rapportés par les vétérinaires en exercice par rapport à l’année précédente. Des particuliers (4%) ont soumis cinq rapports. Par rapport à 2018, en 2019, 79% des effets indésirables ont été signalés par les titulaires d’AMM et 18% par des vétérinaires. Les chiens (55%) et les chats (20%) ont été principalement concernés. D’autres rapports concernaient des bovins (13%) et des chevaux (5%). Récemment, le nombre de signalements concernant les chiens (+12%) et les chats (+4%) a considérablement augmenté. La plupart des rapports étaient basés sur l’application de vaccins contre la maladie de Carré, l’hépatite, la parvovirose et la parainfluenza en association avec la leptospirose chez le chien ainsi que contre la grippe et la panleucopénie féline chez le chat. Dans 34% des cas soumis, l’évaluation de la causalité entre la vaccination et la réaction décrite a été jugée probable.Lo scopo del sistema di notifica di vaccinovigilanza è di identificare gli effetti indesiderati di un farmaco che possono sorgere dopo l’uso di medicamenti veterinari (MVet) immunologici. Questi includono non solo gli effetti indesiderati di un farmaco ma anche una presunta efficacia insufficiente dei vaccini. L’Istituto di Virologia e Immunologia (IVI), in qualità di ufficio di omologazione dei Mvet immunologici, è responsabile della verifica del sistema di notifica. Nel 2019 sono state registrate 137 notifiche di Mvet immunologici omologati (15% in meno del 2018). Mentre la maggior parte degli effetti indesiderati è stata presentata tramite i rispettivi titolari dell'omologazione (56%), i veterinari (40%) hanno anch’essi adempiuto ai loro obblighi di notifica. Questo indica un incremento delle notifiche da parte dei veterinari del 22% rispetto all’anno precedente. Cinque notifiche sono state inoltrate da persone private (4%). A titolo di confronto, nel 2018 il 79% degli effetti indesiderati sono stati notificati dai titolari dell’omologazione e il 18% dai veterinari. Nel 2019 le segnalazioni hanno coinvolto principalmente i cani (55%) e i gatti (20%). Altre notifiche hanno coinvolto i bovini (13%) e i cavalli (5%). Attualmente, sono stati segnalati un numero significativamente maggiore di notifiche relative ai cani (+12%) e ai gatti (+4%). La maggior parte degli effetti indesiderati era legata all'uso di vaccini contro il cimurro, l’epatite, la parvovirosi e la parainfluenza in combinazione con la leptospirosi nei cani e la rinite felina e l'influenza felina nei gatti. Nel 34% dei casi inoltrati è stata considerata probabile una relazione causale tra la vaccinazione e la risposta alla vaccinazione.

Objective\ud \ud To describe the clinical findings, magnetic resonance imaging features, management and outcome of canine cases with presumed optic neuritis of non‐infectious origin that were presented to a UK referral centre from January 2000 to December 2015.\ud \ud Materials and Methods\ud \ud The clinical database was searched for optic neuritis. Dogs with acute‐onset vision impairment, systemic immunosuppressive treatment and follow‐up of ≥6 months were included. Information collected included: age; gender; breed; clinical signs and duration; physical, ophthalmic and neurological examination findings; concurrent systemic disease; and results of electroretinogram, magnetic resonance imaging, cerebrospinal fluid analysis, polymerase chain reaction and serology testing for Toxoplasma gondii, Neospora caninum and canine distemper virus, haematology and serum biochemistry profiles, abdominal ultrasound, thoracic radiography, treatment and outcome.\ud \ud Results\ud \ud Twenty‐eight dogs were included, with a total of 48 affected optic nerves. Age at presentation ranged from 6 months to 10.5 years. Fundoscopic evidence of optic nerve disease was present in 34 of 48 (71%) optic nerves. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed enlargement of 32 of 48 (67%) nerves and contrast enhancement of 28 of 48 (58%) nerves. Cerebrospinal fluid analysis performed in 25 of 28 (89%) dogs revealed pleocytosis (>5 nucleated cells/uL) in 11 of 25 (44%) and increased protein (>0.35 g/L) in 11 of 25 (44%). Immunosuppressive prednisolone was administered to all dogs. Prednisolone was used alone in 9 of 28 (32%) dogs; the remaining 19 dogs received a combination of prednisolone with cytosine arabinoside, cyclosporine and/or azathioprine. Vision was recovered in 24 eyes (50%) of 18 affected dogs.\ud \ud Clinical Significance\ud \ud A positive response to treatment was observed in 64% of dogs with presumptively diagnosed optic neuritis treated with immunosuppressive medication.

Aims: This study aimed to determine the Canine Distemper Virus (CDV) lineage circulating in the Puducherry region (Southern India) and how they are genetically and antigenically related to the vaccine and other known CDV lineages around the world. Study Design: The study involved genetic characterization of the canine distemper virus strains/lineages circulating in the clinically suspected dogs in the field. Place and Duration of Study: Department of Veterinary Clinical Complex, Animal Husbandry Department, Private Veterinary Clinics, NGOs like Bark India, People for Animals organization, Puducherry between January 2018 and December 2019. Methodology: The ocular and nasal swabs were collected from 40 dogs suspected for canine distemper from Puducherry state (Southern India). Following viral RNA Extraction and cDNA synthesis; the cDNAs were screened for virus by targeting the CDV Nucleocapsid (N) gene using Reverse Transcriptase PCR. Further, the N gene positive cDNAs were genetically characterized for sequence analysis of the CDV hemagglutinin (H) gene. Results: A total of 15 (37.5%) out of 40 ocular/ nasal swabs were found to be CDV positive by RT-PCR targeting the N gene. The sequence analysis of the H gene revealed forty-nine non-synonymous and thirty-three synonymous mutations (out of 356 amino acids) in comparison with vaccine strain. The vaccine virus (Onderstepoort strain), which is related to the America 1 lineage, possessed high level of (30 – 35 i.e. more than 10%) amino acid divergence with the CDV sequences analysed in this study. The Phylogenetic analysis revealed that the present CDV sequences formed a separate monophyletic group with the CDV sequences of other Indian dogs and the Indian wildlife (Lion) and is clustered away from the vaccine strain. The CDV sequences were closer to the CDVs of Africa - 2 lineage than the other Asian lineages. The Recombination analysis revealed no potential breakpoints and recombination events. Conclusion: Together, these findings highlighted the possible existence of the novel Indian CDV lineage/s distinct from the vaccine strain and from other known Asian lineages.

Canine morbillivirus, also known as canine distemper virus (CDV), induces a contagious multisystemic disease caused by an enveloped RNA virus belonging to the genus Morbillivirus within the family Paramyxoviridae. CDV replicates readily in epithelial, nerve and lymphoid tissues; it is excreted in urine, feces, saliva, oral and nasal discharge; and its major route of entry for infection is through the respiratory system. Although the virus was originally believed to infect domestic dogs, new studies have shown that it can also naturally or experimentally infect non‐domestic hosts. A recent blood test performed on a giant anteater (Myrmecophaga tridactyla) found Lentz inclusions in the animal's leucocytes. A rapid CDV test, an RT‐PCR assay and pathology findings confirmed this report of canine morbillivirus in this species, which corresponds to the second report of CDV infection in the order Pilosa, family Myrmecophagidae in central west Brazil., This article is the first report of canine morbillivirus infection in a Giant anteater (Myrmecophaga tridactyla).The disease was confirmed through samples collected from the animal after the visualization of Lents corpuscles inside leucocytes during blood count cells.

The European polecat (Mustela putorius) almost became extinct in Britain in the early twentieth century, but populations are now recovering. As seen in other endangered carnivore populations, disease is one potential threat to recovery. This study assessed exposure of wild polecats (n = 149) to three, multi-host pathogens which could limit reproduction and/or cause morbidity and mortality. Serum, lung and brain samples were collected from polecats which died from 2011 to 2016 across Britain. Exposure to Toxoplasma gondii and 12 Leptospira serovars was assessed serologically by antibody detection using the latex agglutination test and microscopic agglutination test, respectively, and the presence of canine distemper virus (CDV) RNA in lung and brain tissue samples was assessed using PCR. Generalised linear models were used to test for relationships between exposure to each pathogen and season, sex, age, and location. All organ samples tested PCR negative for CDV (95% CI 0.00–0.05%). There was evidence of frequent exposure to T. gondii with a recorded seroprevalence of 71.8% (95% CI 64.2–79.4%) and moderate exposure to Leptospira serovars, 14.5% (95% CI 8.6–20.4%). Season, sex, age, and location were not significantly associated with exposure to T. gondii or Leptospira serovars. Evidence of exposure to T. gondii and Leptospira serovars in European polecats could potentially affect mortality, longevity or fecundity. Further studies are warranted to assess the impact of these pathogens on polecat populations in Britain.

Canine distemper virus (CDV) can cause mortality in domestic dogs, which is easily prevented by the consistent application of vaccination protocols. The aim of this study was to determine if the dog populations of three strategically located islands in the Torres Strait of Australia, adjacent to Papua New Guinea, are infected by CDV. Eighty-four serum samples were collected from 70 dogs resident on Saibai, Dauan and Boigu Islands during 2017-2018. Sera were tested for CDV antibodies by a virus neutralization test (VNT). Overall, 7 (8.3%) sera from 6 (8.6%) dogs resident on all three islands were test positive. VNT titres ranged from 20 to >1280. Male adult dogs were more commonly seropositive than female and juvenile dogs. Considering the origin and age of test positive dogs, and veterinary visits to these islands, it was concluded that there is evidence of exposure to a field strain of CDV - rather than previous vaccination - in 4 of the 70 dogs (5.7%) tested in this study. Given the strategic location of these islands in a zone of high biosecurity risk, ongoing surveillance of pathogens such as CDV could inform on potential disease spread pathways in this region. In addition, the presence of high serological titres in the apparent absence of clinical disease requires further investigation.

A 61-d-old fennec fox ( Vulpes zerda), 11 d after receiving a multivalent, modified-live virus vaccine containing canine distemper virus (CDV), canine adenovirus 2 (CAdV-2), parainfluenza virus, parvovirus, and canine coronavirus, developed oculonasal discharge, and subsequently convulsions, and hemoptysis, and died. Microscopic changes in the cerebrum were evident, including neuronal degeneration and necrosis; intracytoplasmic eosinophilic inclusion bodies were observed in astrocytes. CDV was detected in the brain tissue by immunohistochemistry. Pulmonary lesions of multifocal necrotizing bronchopneumonia had Cowdry type A intranuclear inclusions in the bronchial epithelial cells. Electron microscopy revealed crystalline arrays of adenovirus-like particles within the intranuclear inclusions. Additionally, the hemagglutinin gene of CDV and the CAdV-2 DNA polymerase gene were detected in the fennec fox; sequence analysis showed 100% identity with those of the vaccine strain viruses. To our knowledge, vaccine-induced CDV and CAdV-2 coinfections using molecular analysis have not been reported previously. Therefore, vaccine strains should be considered prior to CDV vaccination in nondomestic carnivores.

Canine distemper (CD) is a multisystemic and infectious disease caused by a Morbillivirus. The search for viral inclusions by mucosal cytology is a low cost and high practical alternative, which establishes the definitive diagnosis of CD, but is little reported in the literature. The objective was to encourage the use of mucosal cytopathology to identify Sinegaglia-Lentz corpuscles in the veterinary routine as an alternative or complementary to blood screening, providing a selection of photographs of the viral inclusions. Selected were 16 dogs with classic systemic or neurological disorders and positive for the chromatographic immunoassay for CD. Samples of the conjunctival, nasal and genital epithelium were collected with the aid of a sterile swab for making slides. Whole blood was also collected to make a blood smear. The slides were stained with a fast panoptic and observed by optical microscopy to directly search for eosinophilic viral inclusions, at 40 and 100x magnification. Sinegaglia-Lentz corpuscles were detected in nine of the 16 dogs (56.25%), five in conjunctival mucosa (41.65%), three in nasal mucosa (25%), one in genital mucosa (8.33%) and three in blood smear (25%). It is concluded that mucosa cytopathology, especially conjunctival, for Sinegaglia-Lentz research is an auxiliary tool for the early and definitive diagnosis of canine distemper. However, the absence of viral inclusions in these samples does not rule out the possibility of the disease.

The outcome of pathogen spillover from a reservoir to a novel host population can range from a “dead‐end” when there is no onward transmission in the recipient population, to epidemic spread and even establishment in new hosts. Understanding the evolutionary epidemiology of spillover events leading to discrete outcomes in novel hosts is key to predicting risk and can lead to a better understanding of mechanisms of emergence. Here we use a Bayesian phylodynamic approach to examine cross‐species transmission and evolutionary dynamics during a canine distemper virus spillover event causing clinical disease and population decline in an African lion population (Panthera leo) in the Serengeti Ecological Region between 1993 and 1994. Using 21 near‐complete viral genomes from four species we found that this large‐scale outbreak was likely ignited by a single cross‐species spillover event from a canid reservoir to non‐canid hosts less than one year before disease detection and explosive spread of CDV in lions. Cross‐species transmission from other non‐canid species likely fueled the high prevalence of CDV across spatially structured lion prides. Multiple lines of evidence suggest that spotted hyenas (Crocuta crocuta) could have acted as the proximate source of CDV exposure in lions. We report thirteen nucleotide substitutions segregating CDV strains found in canids and non‐canids. Our results are consistent with the hypothesis that virus evolution played a role in CDV emergence in non‐canid hosts following spillover during the outbreak, and suggests that host barriers to clinical infection can limit outcomes of CDV spillover in novel host species.

The aim of the study was to determine the expression profiles of GABAA, GABAB, and GAT1 using RT-PCR and the immunoreactivity of GAT1 via immunohistochemical and immunofluorescence assays in CDV-infected brain tissue of dogs. For this purpose, dogs with CDV and dogs without CDV were selected. The mRNA transcript levels of GABAA, GABAB, and GAT1 were significantly downregulated in brain tissue in the CDV-infected group as compared with that in non-CDV-infected brain tissue in the control group (p < 0.01, p < 0.001). In addition, the immunoreactivity of GAT1 in CDV-infected brain tissue was significantly lower than in the uninfected group (p < 0.05). We conclude that one of the main causes of myoclonus in CDV infections may be the blockage of postsynaptic inhibition in neurons or a lack of metabolism of GABA. In addition, a GABA neurotransmission imbalance could play a role in demyelination in CDV infections.

Summary The canine infectious respiratory disease complex (CIRDC) is an endemic worldwide syndrome involving multiple viral and bacterial pathogens. Traditionally, Bordetella bronchiseptica (Bb), canine adenovirus type 2 (CAV-2), canine distemper virus (CDV), canine herpesvirus (CHV) and canine parainfluenza virus (CPiV) were considered the major causative agents. Lately, new pathogens have been implicated in the development of CIRDC, namely canine influenza virus (CIV), canine respiratory coronavirus (CRCoV), canine pneumovirus (CnPnV), Mycoplasma cynos and Streptococcus equi subspecies zooepidemicus. To better understand the role of the different pathogens in the development of CIRDC and their epidemiological relevance in Europe, prevalence data were collected from peer-reviewed publications and summarized. Evidence of exposure to Bb is frequently found in healthy and diseased dogs and client-owned dogs are as likely to be infected as kennelled dogs. Co-infections with viral pathogens are common. The findings confirm that Bb is an important cause of CIRDC in Europe. CAV-2 and CDV recovery rates from healthy and diseased dogs are low and the most likely explanation for this is control through vaccination. Seroconversion to CHV can be demonstrated following CIRDC outbreaks and CHV has been detected in the lower respiratory tract of diseased dogs. There is some evidence that CHV is not a primary cause of CIRDC, but opportunistically re-activates at the time of infection and exacerbates the disease. The currently available data suggest that CIV is, at present, neither a prevalent nor a significant pathogen in Europe. CPiV remains an important pathogen in CIRDC and facilitates co-infection with other viral and bacterial pathogens. CnPnV and CRCoV are important new elements in the aetiology of CIRDC and spread particularly well in multi-dog establishments. M. cynos is common in Europe and is more likely to occur in younger and kennelled dogs. This organism is frequently found together with other CIRDC pathogens and is significantly associated with more severe respiratory signs. S. zooepidemicus infection is not common and appears to be a particular problem in kennels. Protective immunity against respiratory diseases is rarely complete, and generally only a reduction in clinical signs and excretion of pathogen can be achieved through vaccination. However, even vaccines that only reduce and do not prevent infection carry epidemiological advantages. They reduce spread, increase herd immunity and decrease usage of antimicrobials. Recommending vaccination of dogs against pathogens of CIRDC will directly provide epidemiological advantages to the population and the individual dog.

Canine distemper virus (CDV) is the causative agent of one of the most spread, highly contagious and lethal viral disease in canines, whose morbidity varies between 25-75% and mortality between 50-90%. The aim of the present study was to carry out an epidemiological study of CDV from a Veterinary Hospital in the city of Pachuca de Soto, State of Hidalgo. The information was obtained from 7280 medical records of canine patients treated during the 2017-2018 period, of which 65 met the positive case criteria for the CDV. An observational, cross-sectional epidemiological study with a retrospective search of cases was carried out. It was determined that 8 out of every 1000 patients attending the clinic were positive for CDV, observing that a higher frequency of males with 63%, with Relative Risk (RR) of 0.67 and an Odds Ratio (OR) of 0.47 , patients under 6 months have the highest frequency of cases with 62% (RR of 8.0 and OR of 19.2); Despite the variability of the breeds within the analysis performed, the highest frequency was found in mongrel dogs with 52% (RR of 1.79 and OR of 2.66), on the other hand, it was determined that seasonality influences the degree of presentation of this disease, being greater in winter with 45% of cases (RR 1.81 and OR 2.47). In conclusion, in the Veterinary Hospital under study, the CDV affects male Creole dogs less than seven months of age unvaccinated more and the disease occurs most frequently in winter

Background Viral diseases are a major cause of morbidity and mortality in puppies. There is a belief among veterinary practitioners and even educational institutions that the vaccines made in Brazil against canine distemper virus (CDV), canine parvovirus (CPV) and canine adenovirus (CAV) are ineffective or only partially effective. Objectives This study aimed at comparing the immunity of two multivalent vaccines in adult dogs in the city of Uberlândia, Minas Gerais state, Brazil. Methods The study was carried out at the Animal Protection Association and a total of 60 adult mongrel dogs were selected and divided into two groups. Group A was immunized with two doses of Elevencell® vaccine and Group B received two doses of imported vaccine from the United States; each group was made up of 14 females and 14 males. Results In group A, the Elevencell vaccine generated a protective antibody titre against CDV in 26 out of 28 subjects (92.85%), CPV in 24 out of 28 subjects (85.71%) and CAV in 26 out of 28 subjects (92.85%). In group B, the imported US vaccine generated a protective antibody titre against CDV in 22 out of 28 subjects (78.57), CPV in 21 out of 28 subjects (75%) and CAV in 25 out of 28 subjects (89.28%). There was no statistical difference between titres generated between vaccine types for any of the three diseases tested. Conclusion Elevencell vaccine titres were not inferior to the imported US vaccine in conferring protective titres against CDV, CPV and CAH, which confirms the efficacy of this product., A vaccine made in Brazil is an appropriate immunogen to induce a strong immune response in a highly challenging environment such as the APA shelter

Canine distemper virus (CDV) is the causative agent of one of the most spread, highly contagious and lethal viral disease in canines, whose morbidity varies between 25-75% and mortality between 50-90%. The present study aimed to carry out an epidemiological study of CDV from a Veterinary Hospital in the city of Pachuca of Soto, State of Hidalgo. The information was obtained from 7280 medical records of canine patients treated during the 2017-2018 period, of which 65 met the positive case criteria for the CDV. An observational, cross-sectional epidemiological study with a retrospective search of cases was carried out. It was determined that 8 out of every 1000 patients attending the clinic were positive for CDV, observing that a higher frequency of males with 63%, with Relative Risk (RR) of 0.67 and an Odds Ratio (OR) of 0.47, patients under 6 months have the highest frequency of cases with 62% (RR of 8.0 and OR of 19.2); Despite the variability of the breeds within the analysis performed, the highest frequency was found in mongrel dogs with 52% (RR of 1.79 and OR of 2.66), on the other hand, it was determined that seasonality influences the degree of presentation of this disease, being greater in winter with 45% of cases (RR 1.81 and OR 2.47). In conclusion, in the Veterinary Hospitalunderstudy, the CDV affects male Creole dogs less than seven months of age unvaccinated more and the disease occurs most frequently in winter.

Civets are small mammals belonging to the family Viverridae. The masked palm civets (Paguma larvata) served as an intermediate host in the bat-to-human transmission of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV) in 20031. Because of their unique role in the SARS outbreak, civets were suspected as a potential intermediate host of SARS-CoV-2, the etiological pathogen of the COVID-19 pandemic. Besides their susceptibility to coronaviruses, civets can also be infected by other viruses, such as canine distemper viruses2, parvoviruses3, influenza viruses4, etc. Regarding the ecological and economical role of civets, it is vital to evaluate the potential threats from different pathogens to these animals. Receptor binding is a necessary step for virus entry into host cells. Understanding the distribution of receptors of various viruses provides hints to their potential tissue tropisms. Herein, we characterized the cell atlas of five important organs (the frontal lobe, lung, liver, spleen and kidney) of masked palm civets (Paguma larvata) and described the expression profiles of receptor associated genes of 132 viruses from 25 families, including 16 viruses from 10 families reported before that can attack civets and 116 viruses with little infection record.

Background Canine distemper virus (CDV) infection of ferrets, dogs, and giant pandas causes an acute systemic disease involving multiple organ systems, including the respiratory tract, lymphoid system, and central nervous system. In this study, we tested a new candidate CDV vaccine-CDV nanoparticles-based on hemagglutinin protein. Methods The nanoparticles were generated from conformation-stabilized CDV hemagglutinin tetramers. Immune responses against CDV were evaluated in mice. Immunization was initiated 6 weeks after birth and boosted two times with 4-week intervals. The blood and mucosal samples were collected 2 weeks after each immunization. Results Vaccination with CDV nanoparticles elicited high levels of IgG antibody titers in mice (approximately sevenfold to eightfold higher than that obtained with soluble CDV H protein) and mucosal immune responses and developed increased CDV-specific neutralizing antibody. The mice that received nanoparticles showed significantly higher IFN-γ- and IL-4-secreting cell population in the spleen and lymph node compared with mice immunized with soluble H protein. The co-stimulatory molecular expression of CD80 and CD86 on the surface of DCs was also upregulated. Conclusion The results demonstrate that self-assembly into nanoparticles can increase the immunogenicity of vaccine antigens, and nanoparticles assembled from conformation-stabilized CDV H protein can serve as a new CDV vaccine.

Canine distemper virus (CDV) is a highly contagious systemic viral disease of dogs, that regularly spills-over into other animal species. Despite widespread vaccination, CDV remains endemic in many parts of the world. In this study we report an outbreak of distemper in ferrets in two independent research facilities in Australia. We found that disease severity varied, although most animals had mild to moderate disease signs. Histopathology results of animals with severe disease presented the typical profile of distemper pathology with multi-system virus replication. Through the development of a discriminatory PCR paired with full genome sequencing we revealed that the outbreak at both facilities was caused by a single, novel lineage of CDV. This lineage was highly divergent across the H gene, F signal peptide and full genome and had less than 93% similarity across the H gene to other described lineages, including the vaccine strain. Molecular analysis indicates that this strain belongs to a distinct lineage that diverged from other clades approximately 140 to 400 years ago, and appears to be unique to Australia. Given the differences in key viral proteins of this novel CDV strain, a review of the efficacy of the CDV vaccines currently in use in Australia is warranted to ensure maximum protection of dogs and other vulnerable species. In addition, enhanced surveillance to determine the prevalence of CDV in ferrets, dogs and other at-risk species in Australia would be useful to better understand the diversity of CDV in Australia.ImportanceCanine distemper virus (CDV) is highly contagious and while dogs are the main reservoir, it may spill over into a number of other animal species. In this study we report an outbreak of distemper in ferrets in two research facilities in Australia. Outcomes of pathology and histopathology suggest ferrets have widespread multi-systemic infection, consistent with previously reported distemper infections in ferrets and dogs. Critically, through sequencing and phylogenetic analysis, we revealed that the outbreak at both facilities was caused by a single, novel and highly divergent lineage of CDV. This virus had less than 93% nucleotide similarity to other described lineages and the vaccine strain. This manuscript adds considerably to the epidemiology, ecology and evolution of this virus, and is one of few reports of distemper in Australia in the literature.