CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. – A contagious virus is spreading through Virginia, but it doesn’t affect humans.
Animal hospitals and shelters in Central Virginia are on high alert due to an increase in parvovirus, or parvo. This deadly and highly contagious virus primarily affects puppies aged six to 20 weeks. It spreads through direct contact with infected dogs, their feces, or contaminated surfaces.
“We know that there have been dogs dying of parvo in our area in the last few months,” said Dr. Garrett Wood, a veterinarian at Old Dominion Animal Hospital.
Last week, the Fluvanna SPCA treated seven puppies with parvo. Shelter Manager Jesse Paye says immediate action is needed after a positive test.
“Isolate the infected puppy as soon as possible,” Paye said. “Put them into an isolation room or a vet office and start treatment right away to prevent it from spreading.”
Dr. Wood emphasizes the importance of prevention.
“Parvovirus is completely preventable with vaccinations, which are about 98 to 99 percent effective when given by veterinarians,” Wood said.
Watch for unusual symptoms in your puppy.
“If parvo is in your area, make sure your puppies are eating, drinking, and not becoming lethargic,” Paye said. “Vomiting or diarrhea are signs that something’s wrong, and they should be seen by a vet immediately.”
If your dog shows any of these symptoms, Dr. Wood stresses the importance of contacting your veterinarian or local emergency clinic right away.
Over the past few months, several puppies with parvo have been treated at Old Dominion Animal Hospital. Each survived because their owners caught the virus early.
Waiting too long to seek help can be fatal.
“With dogs that contract parvo, it can be very deadly, especially in puppies,” Wood said. “Death rates can reach up to 50 percent if they come in very sick. Early detection and intervention lead to better long-term outcomes.”