Even with medical aid, these dogs usually die within a matter of weeks. Diagnosis is confirmed by fluorescent antibody staining of viral antigen in the diarrhea, footpads, or CNS tissues. Once a virus damages the epithelium of the upper respiratory tract, the defense system is compromised and ineffective for removing bacterial pathogens. The resulting bacterial pneumonia then potentiates the viral infection. These dogs are usually afebrile, bright and alert.
Treatment consists of antibiotics, anti-cough medications and supportive care.
A survey of stored, frozen sera from 1976 to 1978 failed to detect parvo virus antibody, which suggests that this virus was new. The virus is highly infective and survives in fecal matter for months. The feces change from light grey to mucoid to bloody to frank hemorrhage. The diarrhea may be projectile and explosive which leads to dehydration and death from shock in 24-48 hours. When infected in utero, CPV may cause myocarditis and acute congestive heart failure in 4-12 week old puppies.