Canine parvovirus infection in Australia during 1980.

A questionnaire sent to all veterinary practitioners in Australia and many in New Zealand asking for details of their experience with canine parvovirus infections in 1980 elicited the following information. In 1980 explosive outbreaks of disease occurred in most parts of Australia. There was no obvious pattern of spread over the continent as a whole. In many cases outbreaks in country areas occurred after dog shows. Canine parvovirus enteritis affected all age groups with an overall mortality of 16 per cent. While the death rate in the young was high, most dogs responded well to fluid therapy. Canine parvovirus did not appear to be associated with clinical entities other than gastroenteritis and myocarditis. No connection with reproductive problems was established. Killed canine parvovirus vaccines were used extensively after the initial release for sale in July 1980. The vaccines appeared to be safe and effective at least in the short term. Problems arose only in vaccination of very young animals.