Animal protection authorities in Cali have issued alerts over possible canine distemper outbreaks, a viral disease that mainly affects young dogs without complete vaccination.
The Unidad Administrativa Especial de Protección Animal (UAEPA) warned that the virus spreads rapidly and can cause digestive and respiratory problems along with irreversible neurological damage in dogs. Miguel Ángel Burbano Vega, leader of Veterinary Services at UAEPA, noted that the disease can lead to death if not treated properly.
Canine distemper does not transmit to humans. The Centro de Bienestar Animal frequently receives puppies without full immunization schedules, and authorities stressed the need to maintain sanitary protocols.
Recommendations include applying vaccines and annual boosters under veterinary supervision, avoiding parks during July, and contacting a veterinarian at signs of illness. Authorities stated that around 80% of the canine population must be vaccinated each year to control the virus.
