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UC Davis is investigating an outbreak of an unusually virulent strain of calicivirus affecting cats seen at several animal hospitals in West L.A. 3 veterinary practices and one foster care network have been affected with approximately 30 total suspect cases. 30-50% of suspect cases died or were euthanized. At this time there is no evidence that the disease has spread within the community at large. All cases appear to have originated from a single source and spread via traffic within and between hospitals and hospital clients. There is no evidence that this has been spread to any animal through an outpatient visit and no evidence of further spread at any of the affected clinics since the disease was identified and control measures instituted over a week ago. As a precaution, all area animal shelters have been asked to be on the alert for this disease; however no cases from animal shelters have been reported…
The incubation period is between 1-5 days. Cats of all ages, including fully vaccinated cats have been affected…
Virus is present systemically and may be shed in feces and in nasal, ocular and oral secretions. The virus can be readily spread by fomites as well as direct transmission. It can be carried for at least several hours on contaminated hands, clothing, instruments, shoes, etc. Droplet transmission is possible over 1-2 meters. Although calici virus may be carried through ventilation systems on dust and hair, airborne transmission over distances greater than a few feet has not been documented in this outbreak…
Calicivirus is moderately hardy in the environment but bleach (5% diluted at 1:32) is effective as a disinfectant. Suspect cases should be housed in strict isolation, with separate equipment, gowns, gloves, caps and protective footwear. Possibly contaminated surfaces should be thoroughly cleaned with bleach…. Veterinary staff and others who handle sick cats should change clothing prior to handling healthy cats and at the end of a shift. There has been no further spread of disease documented in clinics that have taken these precautions."
The incubation period is between 1-5 days. Cats of all ages, including fully vaccinated cats have been affected…
Virus is present systemically and may be shed in feces and in nasal, ocular and oral secretions. The virus can be readily spread by fomites as well as direct transmission. It can be carried for at least several hours on contaminated hands, clothing, instruments, shoes, etc. Droplet transmission is possible over 1-2 meters. Although calici virus may be carried through ventilation systems on dust and hair, airborne transmission over distances greater than a few feet has not been documented in this outbreak…
Calicivirus is moderately hardy in the environment but bleach (5% diluted at 1:32) is effective as a disinfectant. Suspect cases should be housed in strict isolation, with separate equipment, gowns, gloves, caps and protective footwear. Possibly contaminated surfaces should be thoroughly cleaned with bleach…. Veterinary staff and others who handle sick cats should change clothing prior to handling healthy cats and at the end of a shift. There has been no further spread of disease documented in clinics that have taken these precautions."
