canine_hepatitis.page

Canine Hepatitis (ICH)

Infectious canine hepatitis (ICH) is caused by canine adenovirus-1.
The virus localizes in the tonsils initially, and then proceeds to spread to regional lymph nodes and lymphatics before reaching the blood. This is followed by rapid dissemination of the virus to other tissues and body secretions, including saliva, urine, and feces. Viral spread can occur by contact with fomites including feeding utensils and hands.
Ectoparasites can harbor CAV-1 and may be involved in the natural transmission of the disease. Clinical signs of uncomplicated infectious canine hepatitis last up to five to seven days. Persistent signs may be found in dogs with a concurrent viral infection.

Clinical Signs

� Severely affected dogs become moribund and die within a few hours of the onset of clinical signs.
� Clinical signs in dogs that survive the acute viremic stage include vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain
� Transient or biphasic fever is seen early in the infection.
� Enlarged tonsils, associated with pharyngitis, laryngitis, and coughing with harsh respiratory sounds.
� Enlarged lymph nodes are found with subcutaneous edema of the head,neck, and dependent areas of the trunk.
� Abdominal tenderness and enlarged liver.
� Prolonged bleeding from puncture wounds and bloody noses.

Prevalence and Population Susceptibility

Canine Adenovirus-1 causes clinical signs in dogs, coyotes, foxes, and other animals of the dog and bear families. The high incidence of naturally occurring antibodies in the unvaccinated feral and wildlife dog population suggests that subclinical infection is widespread. IHC is most frequently seen in dogs younger than one year although unvaccinated dogs
of all ages can be affected.

Zoonotic Risk
None

Methods of Prevention and Control
control is largely based on vaccination

Vaccinations:

� Vaccination is usually performed in combination with that for distemper and other diseases beginning at six to       nine weeks of age.
� The recommended schedule for any vaccine for IHC involves at least two vaccinations three to four weeks          apart at eight to ten, and twelve to fourteen weeks of age.
� Earlier and more frequent vaccination is recommended in areas of high prevalence.
� Annual vaccination is often recommended but is probably not essential because of the long-standing immunity       produced by modified-live vaccines.