Retrospective Study on Canine Distemper Cases in Cebu, Philippines (2019-2024)

Background: Canine distemper (CD) remains a significant global threat to dog populations, yet comprehensive epidemiological data in the Philippines are limited, restricting accurate evaluation of vaccination programs and targeted control strategies. Objectives: This study aimed to address these gaps by analyzing clinical data from selected veterinary clinics in Cebu, Philippines, to better understand CD patterns and associated risk factors. Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on 417 clinical cases recorded from 2019 to 2024 across three veterinary clinics in Cebu. After data cleaning, 360 cases were included. Dogs tested for canine distemper virus (CDV) using commercial test kits met the inclusion criteria. Data on patient profiles, clinical signs, and treatments were collected and analyzed. Results: CDV-positive cases accounted for 49.4% of cases, while 50.6% were negative, with an increase in infections observed in 2024 (53.6%). Male and female dogs were equally affected. Most CDV-positive dogs were mixed-breed (82.6%), unvaccinated (83.7%), small-sized (68.8%), and within the young adult to mature adult age range (26.8–37.5%). Common clinical signs included ocular and nasal discharges (100%), inappetence (43.6%), fever (31.4%), and lethargy (8.3%). Co-infections such as Ancylostoma spp. (12.4%), canine ehrlichiosis (6.7%), canine parvovirus (5.1%), Trichuris spp. (5.1%), canine anaplasmosis (4.5%), and canine babesiosis (3.4%) were also noted. Treatment frequently involved antibiotics, particularly doxycycline (30.6%), along with supportive therapies including vitamins and supplements. Statistical analysis showed significant associations between CD positivity and age (χ² = 20.631, df = 4, P < 0.001) and vaccination status (χ² = 7.969, df = 2, P = 0.019). Conclusion: These findings highlight the importance of vaccination and client education. Strengthened vaccination programs, improved diagnostics, and community-based interventions are essential to reduce CDV prevalence and improve outcomes in Cebu.