Distemper Outbreak Kills Dozens of Animals

Minnesota DNR Sends out Public Warning

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The Minnesota DNR is warning Northlanders about an outbreak of distemper.

The deadly and contagious virus that attacks the nervous system is quickly spreading to animals throughout the Northland. 

So far, distemper has killed nearly a dozen animals since last fall. 

Experts say there is no cure for it when an animal gets it. 

“If an animal that’s having those symptoms shows up in your backyard and out in the country where firearms are, it’s probably best to just euthanize the animal,” said Cloquet’s Area Wildlife Manager, Chris Balzer.

The best way to keep your pet from getting it is to make sure they are up to date on all their vaccinations.

“Properly immunized pets and humans would not be affected by it.  But, if your pets aren’t immunized they certainly wouldn’t want them in contact with one of these animals,” said Balzer.

If you see an animal that may be suffering from distemper, be sure to call Animal Control immediately.

Balzer also says the virus is not contagious to humans.