Aujeszky's virus
The Aujeszky's virus is a herpes virus that mainly infects pigs, but can also infect other animals such as dogs, cats, cattle and sheep. For dogs, infection with the Aujeszky's virus is usually fatal. The disease is also known as pseudowut, itch disease or infectious bulbar paralysis.
How do dogs become infected with the Aujeszky's virus?
Dogs become infected with the Aujeszky's virus when they eat raw pork that is contaminated with the virus. This can happen, for example, if they hunt wild boar or find pig waste. A bite from an infected pig can also lead to infection. However, transmission from dog to dog is not possible.
How do you recognize the symptoms of Aujeszky's disease?
The symptoms of Aujeszky's disease usually appear within 48 hours of infection. They are very diverse and can vary depending on the dog. The most common signs include
- Behavioral changes such as restlessness, aggressiveness or apathy
- Vomiting, diarrhea and increased salivation
- Rapid pulse, cardiac arrhythmia, fever or hypothermia
- Severe itching, especially on the ears and nose, which leads to scratching and biting
- Neurological disorders such as paralysis, convulsions or loss of consciousness
Most dogs die of Aujeszky's disease within a few days. There is no effective treatment or vaccination for the disease.
How can Aujeszky's disease be prevented?
The best prevention against Aujeszky's disease is not to feed dogs raw pork or to deny them access to such meat. This also applies to offal, bones or sausage products from pigs. Heating the meat to at least 80 degrees Celsius kills the virus.
You should also make sure that dogs do not come into contact with or hunt wild boar. If you live in an area where Aujeszky's disease occurs in wild boar, you should keep your dog on a lead or wear a muzzle.
Aujeszky's disease is a notifiable animal disease. If you suspect that your dog has contracted the virus, you should consult a vet immediately and inform the relevant authorities.
The authors assume that a veterinarian should be consulted if an animal is ill and that medication should only be taken after consultation with a doctor or pharmacist. Only an individual examination can lead to a diagnosis and treatment decision.
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