Veterinary Public Health
Distemper in Raccoons 2014-2015
Outbreak Summary
Beginning in early December 2014, Animal Control agencies in the South Bay area of Los Angeles began reporting an increase in raccoons with clinical signs of the disease Distemper. This disease is contagious to dogs. It can be prevented in dogs with vaccination and other steps.
Between August 2014 and April 7, 2015 a total of 129 cases were documented across the southern area of Los Angeles County. See map at right. Cases of dead or injured raccoons in the area are also shown. Map (PDF)
- Five cases were confirmed by necropsy. Immunohistochemical staining of organ tissue confirmed that they contained the canine distemper virus. One case was confirmed by PCR testing.
- The other 123 raccoons had clinical signs of distemper (such as discharge from the eyes and nose, disorientation, and seizures), and were considered suspect cases.
- 12 raccoons were tested for rabies - all were negative.
Case Counts
| Distemper confirmed | 6 |
|---|---|
| Distemper suspected | 123 |
| TOTAL | 129 |
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 invite raccoons or other wildlife into your yard. Do not leave pet food or water outside. Keep trash in sealed containers.
- 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.
Downloadable brochures about Distemper are available for free from the American Veterinary Medical Association: English | Spanish