~ Click on the link below from a vet site ~

http://www.avma.org/animal_health/canine_parvovirus_faq.asp

New F-Strain Parvo Virus:
Unlike the other strains of parvo (this appears to be the 7th mutation of the PARVO virus), this one may possibly be airborne. Apparently this has been brought to this country (USA) from Europe.

This strain is more deadly than the other strains of parvo and needs to be treated more aggressively. Dogs contracting this new strain will have accelerated symptoms and those dogs which are infected usually die of dehydration and shock because it commonly attacks the intestines causing severe, bloody diarrhea and vomiting. Making matters worse, it prevents the absorption of nutrients and fluids. As a further complication, it can also attack a dog’s heart causing congestive heart failure. This complication can occur months or years after an apparent recovery from the intestinal form of the disease.

It is most commonly contracted by puppies because their immature immune systems can’t fight the virus off but it can be contracted by adults as well. Adults can be carriers without showing any clinical signs. Parvo is most often fatal but, if an infected puppy survives, a complete recovery can occur. Typically, however, survivors remain somewhat un-healthy and weak for life.

The canine parvovirus can be transmitted by direct contact or indirectly by contact with vomit, diarrhea or any contaminated discharges from an infected dog. It is excreted in the feces of infected dogs and if someone or something (human, dog, bird, etc.) steps in it, it can be transported to new areas. It can also be transmitted on hands, clothing and even car tires.

Because parvo attacks swiftly, time is of the essence. If you feel your dog has been exposed to parvo, or it is showing symptoms, contact your veterinarian or an emergency veterinary hospital. From the time symptoms appear to the time of death can be as little as six hours. Fluids and electrolytes must be given to offset what the dog is losing. Care should be given immediately!

The symptoms of parvo include a sudden onset of vomiting, bloody diarrhea, dehydration, lethargy, high temperature and sometimes sudden death. Symptoms are similar in adults, although they can be less acute. It strikes with a quick vengeance, and pet owners often make the comment that their dog was up and playing a few hours prior to the animal becoming extremely ill.

Typically, it takes 7-10 days from the time of infection for the dog to start showing clinical signs and to test positive for parvo. Once the parvo virus is introduced into an animal’s environment, it can remain active for up to 9 months for possibly even longer. It is very hardy and can withstand wide temperature fluctuations and most cleaning agents. In fact most disinfectants cannot kill the virus but chlorine bleach is the most effective and inexpensive. Any areas thought to be contaminated should be thoroughly washed with 1 ounce of bleach per quart of water.

F strain symptoms to watch for: