Video: Canine Virus Resurfaces In One North MS City

STARKVILLE, Miss. (WCBI)- A highly-contagious virus known as distemper has been found in animals in Starkville.

Starkville Animal Control reports they have picked up 6 diseased raccoons inside the Starkville city limits within the last month and a half.

MSU’s Veterinary School confirms three of the animals have distemper with the others showing symptoms.

In the later stages of the disease, the wildlife can appear to be tame one minute and aggressive the next.

There are no reports of domestic dogs with the virus, but veterinarians say pets need to have their vaccinations up to date.

“Distemper starts respiratory then it transfers to the brain,” said  Corporal Brandon Lovelady, Public Information Officer for the Starkville Police Department. “It’s highly contagious but it’s preventable. It’s preventable through your animals annual vaccine. Distemper is one of the things they’re vaccinated for.”

The Starkville police department is encouraging residents to be observant and contact animal control if you believe you have spotted an animal with symptoms.