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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
City of Duluth - Police Department
Mike Ceynowa, Chief of Police
2030 North Arlington Avenue • Duluth, Minnesota 55811 • www.duluthmn.gov
For more information contact:
Public Information Officer, Mattie Hjelseth at (218) 730-5434 or mhjelseth@duluthmn.gov
DATE: 4/8/2015
SUBJECT: Public Awareness on Distemper Virus
BY: DPD Public Information Officer R. Tinsley (218) 730-5722

NATURE OF INCIDENT: Public Awareness on Distemper Virus
CASE NO.:
INCIDENT DATE: 4/8/2015
INCIDENT TIME:
INCIDENT LOCATION: Duluth Area

The Duluth Police Department wants to make the public aware of the Distemper Virus.   The Distemper Virus has accounted for several skunks in the area that contracted the virus and had to be euthanized by the Duluth Police Department.

Important things the public should know about the Distemper Virus:

•             Humans are not at risk from Distemper as the disease cannot be passed on to humans.

•             Canine and feline Distemper is highly contagious among domesticated and wild animals.

•             Dog and cat owners should have their pets vaccinated for distemper.

•             Domesticated animals can contract distemper from contact with infected animals as well as from humans who have had contact with infected animals.

Symptoms in animals may include difficulty breathing, vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration and anorexia. They may be depressed, have poor body condition, thick ocular and nasal discharge, disoriented, wander aimlessly, and have no fear of humans. They can experience, convulsions, paralysis, abnormal head and neck posture and loss of coordination.

The Duluth Police Department is asking that you do not approach wild animals especially if they are displaying signs of the Distemper Virus and to contact 911. Wild animals with distemper may appear tame and have no fear of humans. Please do not handle or pet them as they may try to bite you or you may transfer the virus to your pet.  If you have questions regarding the Distemper Virus call your local veterinarian.