Murine parainfluenza virus Type 1, also known as is the Sendai virus, is a virus specifically affecting murine species. Sendai virus is a species in the genus Respirovirus, which also contains the common flu. The virus is immunosuppressive and can have an immediate, as well as a long-term effect, on the host’s immune system. As a result, a Sendai virus infection may cause high morbidity and mortality rates when combined with bacterial pathogens.
Transmission:
Sendai virus is extremely contagious. The typical transmission mode is via direct contact and aerosol infection of the respiratory tract. Closely contained populations used for research are especially susceptible to outbreak.
Symptoms:
Sendai virus induces lesions within the respiratory tract, usually associated with bacterial inflammation of the trachea and lung. There is no treatment for Sendai virus so it is essential to treat immediately for secondary bacterial infections with broad-spectrum antibiotics as soon as an SV infection is noticed. These include:
- Sneezing
- Hunched posture
- Respiratory distress
- Porphyrin discharge from eyes and/or nose
- Lethargy
- Infant mortality
- Anorexia
