The virus itself is related to the human measles virus and can produce a number of different disease patterns in canines.
Transmission usually occurs via airborne.
It is highly contagious and can travel some distance. Distemper can affect a number of body systems, including respiratory and nervous system. Early signs of the disease include fever, loss of appetite and a mild conjunctivitis. These signs come and go, as a result pet owners often miss the early phase of the disease. As it progresses, signs become more serious.