Virulent systemic calicivirus: outbreak in adult cats

Question

In a cat shelter, within one week, several vaccinated adult cats develop high fever, oedema of the face and limbs, ulcers and crusts on the nose, ears and pads, and jaundice. Two have died. Ten days earlier a cat was transferred in from another centre.

What is the suspected diagnosis and priority action?

chevron_right Show answer and explanation

A. Panleukopenia; revaccinate every cat in the shelter

Panleukopenia does not cause skin oedema, crusts or jaundice and mainly affects kittens. Revaccination will not stop an outbreak of a different cause.

B. Feline herpesvirus; famciclovir for all affected cats

Herpesvirus causes respiratory and ocular disease, not systemic vasculitis with oedema, jaundice and high mortality in adults.

C. Classic calicivirus infection; supportive care without special measures, because vaccinated adults are protected

This is not classic calicivirus disease, and the virulent systemic strain precisely affects vaccinated adults. Taking no measures allows the outbreak to spread.

D. Virulent systemic calicivirus; strict isolation, closure to admissions and transfers, protective equipment, disinfection with hypochlorite or peroxymonosulfate and supportive care

Correct. Oedema, ulcerative skin lesions, jaundice and high mortality in vaccinated adults, after the arrival of a new cat, are typical of this form. It spreads easily via fomites and staff, so outbreak control is the priority.

lightbulb Key takeaway

PCR detects calicivirus but does not distinguish the virulent systemic strain: diagnosis relies on clinical and epidemiological features. Outbreaks usually start in shelters or clinics, are more severe in adults than kittens, and burn out with strict biosecurity measures.

What is the suspected diagnosis and priority action?

Related questions