Canine distemper is a contagious and serious disease caused by a virus that attacks the respiratory, gastrointestinal and nervous systems of both domesticated and wild animals, though it is more common in pet dogs and cats.
The virus is a member of the genus Morbillivirus of the family Paramyxoviridae (the same family of the viruses that causes measles, mumps, and bronchiolitis in humans)
The virus can also be found in wildlife such as foxes, wolves, coyotes, raccoons, skunks, mink and ferrets and has been reported in lions, tigers, leopards, and other wild cats as well as seals.
At least eight jackals have died at the Assam zoo due to a virus associated with canines.
The virus does not affect humans however they may be carriers.
