Veterinary Public Health
Distemper in Raccoons 2009-2010
Outbreak Summary
During late 2009 and early 2010, the Veterinary Public Health & Rabies Control Program investigated a large outbreak of Distemper in local raccoons. A total of 137 suspected cases were reported, with 9 cases being confirmed by necropsy.
Clusters of cases were identified in several areas of the county. During this outbreak, the disease also spread to other species, with cases reported in 41 dogs, 5 coyotes, 3 foxes (1 fox confirmed by necropsy) and 6 skunks. As the disease had spread around the county, it was important to alert dog owners about the distemper risk and encourage them to keep their dog’s distemper vaccinations up to date.
About Distemper
Distemper is a contagious virus that can infect dogs, raccoons, skunks, foxes, ferrets, lions and tigers. The virus infects the whole body and suppresses the immune system. Animals infected with Distemper can spread the virus through direct contact with other animals or by contaminating the environment with infectious discharges. Infected animals become very sick, and develop nasal and ocular discharges, fever, vomiting, diarrhea, neurologic symptoms, and may die.
Recommendations for Distemper Prevention in Dogs
- Vaccination. Dog owners should make sure their pet’s Distemper vaccination is up-to-date.
- NEVER FEED WILDLIFE. Do not encourage wildlife to come into your yard. Do not leave pet food or water outside. Keep trash in sealed containers.
- Education. Please educate others about Distemper sharing this alert (PDF) and this poster (PDF).
- Report Cases. Veterinarians should report any suspected cases of Distemper to our program through our reporting page. Animal control agencies should also report any suspected cases of distemper in both dogs and wildlife.
We may ask that selected animals be submitted for testing to confirm diagnosis.