Canine Distemper Virus: A persistent threat to domestic and wild carnivores

Abstract

Canine distemper virus (CDV) is a major causative agent of the disease, causing a contagious infection with high morbidity and mortality in dogs and various wild carnivores. The virus, belonging to the genus Morbillivirus (family Paramyxoviridae), exhibits extensive interspecies adaptation, potentially threatening the health of both domestic animals and protected wildlife populations. Distemper infection causes multisystem disorders, including those affecting the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and central nervous systems, and induces severe immunosuppression, increasing susceptibility to additional infections. Although vaccination has successfully reduced the incidence in some regions, CDV remains prevalent worldwide, particularly in areas with low vaccination coverage and large feral dog populations. Advances in molecular analysis have enabled the identification of multiple CDV genotypes through variations in the hemagglutinin (H) gene, which plays a key role in virus binding to the host and influences virulence. This ongoing genetic variation poses challenges to the effectiveness of existing vaccines. Furthermore, the spread of CDV to various wildlife species, such as wolves, civets, and lions, further complicates disease control from a One Health perspective. This review comprehensively outlined the virology, epidemiology, pathogenesis, diagnostic methods, and prevention and control measures for CDV. A more comprehensive understanding of the biology and distribution patterns of CDV is expected to support the development of sustainable animal health policies and strengthen conservation efforts for vulnerable species globally.