Rapid Detection of Canine Distemper and Canine Parvovirus in Dogs

Abstract

Canine Parvovirus (CPV) and Canine distemper virus (CDV) are among the most contagious and life-threatening viral diseases affecting domestic dogs worldwide. Rapid and accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective disease management, particularly in field settings where access to advanced diagnostic facilities is limited. The present study was undertaken to evaluate the incidence of CPV and CDV in clinically affected dogs using lateral flow assay (LFA) kits as a point-of-care diagnostic tool. A total of 50 fecal swabs from diarrheic dogs and 50 nasal swabs from dogs exhibiting respiratory and neurological symptoms were collected from clinical cases presented at the Veterinary Clinical Complex (VCC), College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Kamdhenu University, Junagadh. The LFA kits, procured from Bionote, Inc., were used according to the manufacturer’s instructions. The results revealed that 28% of the dogs were positive for CPV and 16% were positive for CDV. The findings indicate a notable prevalence of both viruses in the study population and highlight the utility of LFA kits as a rapid, reliable, and cost-effective diagnostic method. The ability of LFA to deliver on-site results without the need for sophisticated laboratory infrastructure makes it a valuable tool for early detection and timely intervention, thereby reducing disease transmission and mortality.