Deadly viral outbreak in QLD

A serious and deadly threat is spreading across Queensland, with recent outbreaks of canine parvovirus and feline panleukopenia. These highly contagious and often fatal viruses pose a significant risk to our beloved pets, especially those who are unvaccinated.

Outbreaks have been reported in the following areas:

📍 Brisbane
📍 Ipswich
📍 Sunshine Coast
📍 Gold Coast
📍 Toowoomba

Understanding these diseases, their symptoms, and how they spread can help you take proactive steps to keep your pets safe.

What is Canine Parvovirus?

What it does:
Parvovirus attacks a dog’s gut and immune system, causing severe damage. It is highly contagious and can be fatal without prompt treatment.

Symptoms:

• Vomiting
• Bloody diarrhea
• Lethargy
• Fever
• Loss of appetite

Mortality Rate:
Up to 90% if untreated, though survival improves significantly with early veterinary care.

How it spreads:

• Contact with infected feces, contaminated surfaces, or even shoes and clothing.
• The virus is extremely resilient and can survive in the environment for months.

What is Feline Panleukopenia?

What it does:
This deadly virus destroys a cat’s immune system and attacks their gut, leading to severe illness.

Symptoms:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Fever
• Extreme lethargy
• Loss of appetite

Mortality Rate:
Over 90% without treatment, particularly in kittens.

How it spreads:

• Contact with infected cats, bedding, food bowls, or contaminated surfaces.
• Like parvo, it can survive in the environment for months.

How to Protect Your Pets

1️⃣ Vaccinate Regularly:
Vaccination is the best defense. Ensure your pets are up to date with their shots and boosters.

2️⃣ Maintain Hygiene:
Disinfect areas your pets frequent with effective products like bleach solutions or veterinary-grade disinfectants.

3️⃣ Watch for Symptoms:
If your pet shows any symptoms of these viruses, contact your vet immediately. Early intervention can save lives.

4️⃣ Avoid Risky Areas:
Limit exposure to parks or public spaces where vaccination rates may be uncertain.

How to Kill These Viruses in the Environment

These viruses are incredibly resilient and require strong disinfectants to eliminate them:

• Bleach Solution:

  • Dilute 1 part bleach to 30 parts water (e.g., 1 cup bleach to 7.5 liters water).
  • Allow to sit for 10 minutes before rinsing.
    
    

• F10SC Veterinary Disinfectant:

  • General Use: Dilute 1:500 (10 mL F10 to 4.99 L water).
  • High-Risk Areas: Dilute 1:100 (10 mL F10 to 990 mL water).
  • Allow to sit for 30 minutes before wiping.
    
    

• Virkon® Disinfectant:

  • Dilute 1:100 (10 mL Virkon to 990 mL water).
  • Allow to sit for 10 minutes.
    
    

• Trigene II Disinfectant:

  • General Use: Dilute 1:100 (10 mL Trigene II to 990 mL water).
  • High-Risk Areas: Dilute 1:50 (10 mL Trigene II to 490 mL water).
  • Allow to sit for 30 minutes.

Together, We Can Protect Our Pets

These viruses are preventable with the right actions. By staying vigilant, vaccinating, and maintaining good hygiene, we can help stop the spread and protect our pets from these deadly diseases.

If you have questions or concerns about vaccinations or suspect your pet may be infected, don’t hesitate to contact your veterinarian.

Let’s work together to keep our furry family members safe! 🐾💖