Canine Distemper in Uruguay
Molecular diagnosis and phylogenetic characterization of circulating strains (2021-2023)
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.29155/VET.62.225.3Keywords:
Canine distemper virus, Molecular diagnosis, EpidemiologyAbstract
The canine distemper virus (CDV) is a highly contagious viral infection that causes immunosuppression and affects domestic and wild canines with high mortality. This study retrospectively analyzed diagnosed CDV cases referred to the Microbiological Diagnostic Laboratory of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine of Universidad de la República (Montevideo, Uruguay) between 2021 and 2023. A total of 251 samples were processed, mainly from Montevideo (85 %), with CDV detected in 119 using RT-qPCR. There were no significant differences by sex, and canines under 2 years old were more susceptible (71.4 %). Sixty percent of the cases were unvaccinated, while 28 % had a complete vaccination plan, suggesting possible vaccine failures. Mixed-breed canines were the most affected, but CDV was detected in several breeds. The main signs were neurological, followed by respiratory, digestive, and dermatological; 24 % presented combined signs. Phylogenetic analysis suggests a predominant CDV lineage in Uruguay, with some divergent strains. Understanding the epidemiology and clinical presentation of CDV in Uruguay is crucial for improving prevention, diagnosis, and treatment strategies.
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