Media Release - confirmed case of Parvovirus in SA
MEDIA RELEASE - CONFIRMED CASE OF PARVOVIRUS IN SOUTH AUSTRALIA
Greyhound Racing SA [GRSA] has been advised of a confirmed case of parvovirus on the property of one of its registered trainers. A quarantine period of one fortnight has been imposed on that (and the adjacent) operation in an effort to restrict the spread of the virus to other properties. The participants in question are cooperating with GRSA and have responded to the risk in an appropriate and responsible manner. Contact is being made with other participants who may be at higher risk due to recent contact with that property or its inhabitants, other than which there is no evidence of cause for general concern.
Canine parvovirus is highly contagious and can spread rapidly through dog populations by way of contaminated shoes, clothing and other objects. It is spread orally, mainly from faecal contamination. Care should be exercised when moving or accepting dogs onto your property by wearing clean clothing, disinfecting footwear and the use of plastic gloves when possible.
Parvovirus attacks the gastrointestinal tract and cardiovascular system. Dogs that become infected with the virus and show clinical signs will usually become ill within 7-10 days of contracting the infection. Symptoms may include lack of appetite, depression, fever, severe vomiting and diarrhoea. Vomiting usually begins first and is followed by foul-smelling dysentery or diarrhoea. The virus is often fatal, especially in pups, particularly those with a lower immune system. In those that survive it can result in loss of lining of the intestinal tract, leading to severe dehydration, electrolyte intolerance and blood infection, which has ongoing implications for months and years. Veterinary treatment should be sought for infected dogs as a matter of urgency. Confirmed or suspected cases should be advised to Paul Marks at GRSA (refer below) with absolute priority.
The stability of the virus in the environment makes it important to properly disinfect contaminated areas. This can be done by cleaning food bowls, water bowls, the environment and other items with a solution of F10 or some appropriate alternative (your vet will be able to provide guidance on this front). Care should be taken at all times to properly remove faeces by not leaving them on the ground or in gardens. Any dogs that have succumbed to the virus should be disposed of responsibly through consultation with your veterinary surgeon.
Young pups and dogs that have not been vaccinated are particularly susceptible to the virus. In light of this discovery, GRSA strongly recommends that participants undertake the first vaccination of their own greyhounds (usually 6-8 weeks) as early as possible – ie as close to the six week mark as possible. The current vaccination of all other dogs on the property should also be discussed with your veterinary surgeon.
For further information, please contact:
Paul Marks, Integrity and Standards Manager
M: 0408-815-926