This article is still under construction.

Introduction

Parvoviruses are cleverly named for their extreme size (parve=small). They are species-specific and serious gastroenteric infections.

Morphology

• Small, non-enveloped, icosahedral DNA virus with featureless virions

Virulence and Pathogenesis

• Resistant to pH (even gastric acidity), heat, and desiccation
• Infect rapidly dividing cells
• Target bone marrow, intestinal epithelium, and growing fetus (via viremia)
• Causes Parvovirus Enteritis

Epidemiology

• Can persist for years in the environment

Virus by Species

Feline Parvovirus

Canine Parvovirus

Porcine Parvovirus