Researchers discover new strain of canine distemper virus in wild animals

DURHAM — A distinct strain of canine distemper virus, which is a widespread virus of importance to wildlife and domesticated dogs, has been identified in wild animals in New Hampshire and Vermont, according to pathologists with New Hampshire Veterinary Diagnostic Lab at the University of New Hampshire.

“A distinct clade, also called a strain, of canine distemper virus is circulating in multiple wildlife species in two contiguous states in Northern New England, said David Needle, senior veterinary pathologist and assistant clinical professor with New Hampshire Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory at the University of New Hampshire. “This strain is significantly distinct from the vaccine strains. A member of genus Morbillivirus that includes measles, canine distemper virus is highly contagious and causes severe disease infected animals.”