Canine distemper is a very scary disease with a high mortality rate and a short onset time. Dogs infected with canine distemper can be described as barely surviving; they generally experience vomiting, diarrhea, fever, coughing, and more. Pet owners are very anxious, so does canine distemper infect humans? Canine distemper prevention methods

Does Canine Distemper Infect Humans?

1. What is canine distemper? Canine distemper is caused by the canine distemper virus. It is also known as the "puppy killer" and is highly contagious. In the early stage of the disease, dogs show fever (39.5-41℃), lethargy, loss of appetite, sneezing, runny nose, and diarrhea. If the dog’s immunity is strong, it can recover within 1-3 days, but at this stage, owners must pay close attention. Take the dog to the veterinary hospital promptly for systematic treatment; delaying until the middle or late stage leads to poorer treatment outcomes. Around 3 days to 2 weeks later, if the dog develops high temperature again, purulent nasal discharge, and eye discharge, it indicates the middle stage of distemper. At this point, the dog loses more appetite, becomes lethargic, sleepy, and shows gastrointestinal symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhea. The appearance of convulsions, foaming at the mouth, and other neurological symptoms indicates the late stage of distemper. This stage is very difficult to cure.

2. Does canine distemper infect humans? This is also the most concerning question for owners. In fact, canine distemper is transmitted through bodily fluids. Its transmission route is similar to HIV. Bodily fluids such as blood, saliva, urine, and nasal secretions from infected dogs carry pathogens. Therefore, utensils and food bowls used by dogs with distemper must be isolated from those used by other dogs.

Does canine distemper infect humans? Canine distemper is not contagious to humans! However, it is highly contagious among dogs. Even the most careful owners cannot avoid other dogs being affected, as the virus can also spread through the air and respiratory routes.

3. How to nip canine distemper in the bud? Since the infection rate is higher in puppies, especially newly purchased dogs who are most susceptible, owners must take preventive measures in advance. When purchasing, select from reputable sources where dogs receive unified vaccinations and are provided with vaccination certificates. Puppies should be vaccinated at 45 days old to reduce infection chances. During outbreaks, minimize outdoor activities to avoid contact with infected dogs.

4. What to do if your dog unfortunately contracts canine distemper? Any disease requires early detection and treatment. Owners should closely monitor their dog’s symptoms. If initial symptoms occur, such as fever, loss of appetite, lethargy, runny nose, or respiratory infections, immediately go to the hospital. Even in the middle or late stages, never give up; your persistence is the dog’s only hope to survive.

The above is a detailed introduction to whether canine distemper infects humans. After reading, do owners feel more confident?