Canine adenovirus types 1 (CAV-1) and 2 (CAV-2) are closely related viruses that affect dogs, but they target different organ systems and cause distinct diseases:
🧬 Shared Characteristics
- Family: Both belong to the Adenoviridae family.
- Transmission: Spread through bodily fluids like urine, saliva, and feces.
- Prevention: Vaccines for CAV-2 provide cross-protection against CAV-1.
🦠Differences Between CAV-1 and CAV-2
| Feature | CAV-1 | CAV-2 |
|---|---|---|
| Disease | Infectious Canine Hepatitis (ICH) | Respiratory illness (part of kennel cough complex) |
| Target Organs | Liver, kidneys, eyes | Respiratory tract |
| Severity | Can be fatal | Usually mild to moderate |
| Vaccine Use | Not commonly used due to side effects | Widely used and protects against both types |
🔄 Connection
- Genetic Similarity: CAV-2 is an attenuated strain derived from CAV-1, meaning they share much of the same genetic makeup.
- Vaccine Strategy: Because CAV-2 is safer and still effective against CAV-1, it’s used in vaccines to protect dogs from both viruses.
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