The Seal Distemper Virus, also known as phocine distemper virus (PDV), is a highly contagious and often fatal pathogen that primarily affects seals. It belongs to the family Paramyxoviridae and the genus Morbillivirus.
This viral infection primarily affects species within the Phocidae family, including harbor seals, grey seals, and less commonly, hooded seals. The virus is transmitted through direct contact with bodily fluids or aerosolized respiratory secretions such as coughing, sneezing, or exhaled breath of infected individuals. It can also spread indirectly through contaminated surfaces or water.
Seal Distemper Virus primarily targets the respiratory and nervous systems of seals, leading to a wide range of clinical signs and symptoms including coughing, nasal discharge, lethargy, high fever, pneumonia, gastrointestinal disturbances, convulsions, and ultimately death. Mass mortality events have been recorded in seal populations due to the rapid spread and severity of this virus.
There is currently no known treatment for Seal Distemper Virus, and infected animals often require supportive care to alleviate symptoms. Vaccination against PDV has been successfully used in some cases as a prevention measure. Monitoring and containment measures are crucial to prevent further spread of the virus and protect vulnerable seal populations.
Understanding the Seal Distemper Virus is crucial for wildlife conservation efforts, as it plays a significant role in shaping seal population dynamics and can have devastating consequences on marine ecosystems.
