Entry #2: Canine Parvovirus

Canine Parvovirus, commonly refereed to as just Parvo, is a highly contagious pathogen that affects dogs. It usually results in death within two to three days from the onset of symptoms. Symptoms usually include loss of appetite and lethargy. This soon develops into diarrhea and vomiting, often with bloody stools.

The dogs who are at most risk include puppies under four months of age and un-vaccinated dogs.


The image above shows what the virus looks like at the microscopic level. Different variations of the virus can infect different species. For example only Parvovirus B19 can infect humans. This means that an infected dog or cat will not be able to pass Parvo on to a human. The shape of Parvovirus is icosahedral and results in the slightly spherical shape pictured above. It is a DNA virus that is unique from other viruses because it does not have a capsid or envelope. Instead, it is surrounded by protein structures. More technical info about Parvoviruses can be found at this link. Big Picture Book of Viruses.

If you want to keep your puppy and other furry friends safe remember to keep them vaccinated and seek veterinary help as soon as Parvo is suspected. To aid in prevention it is also best to keep the dog as isolated as possible.

See the American Veterinary Medical Associations page on Parvo by clicking HERE.