Deadly disease explodes infecting more than 140 dogs – and still spreading

By Max Parry, News Reporter

A vet and a Labrador (Image: Getty)

At least 140 dogs have been struck down with distemper in multiple locations and many have had to be put down.

Dogs in the tiny village of El Melón in the centre of Chile have been carrying the disease – which is often fatal and damaging to respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems – and now pets in the city of Nogales have tested positive too.

According to local reports as of August 26, 140 dogs had been identified as having the disease – and it is spreading.

A dog being treated by a vet (Image: Getty)

The Municipal Veterinary Office, which has been leading the campaign to eradicate the virus, is reportedly fumigating affected areas.

Officials have also been conducting surveys and reporting on the symptoms of the virus.

Typically, symptoms include fever, lethargy, loss of appetite, coughing, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Nogales, Chile (Image: Wikicommons)

Dogs in the UK are still impacted by distemper, however cases are rare due to vaccinations. According to Bluecross: "Canine distemper can be spread through the air and bodily fluids (such as saliva or urine).

"There is no cure for canine distemper, only prevention, which is why vaccinating your dog is so important. 

"If your dog catches the virus, they will be given supportive care to help their body fight the virus. They'll also be treated with fluids to prevent dehydration, and given medication to help control seizures."