SEROLOGIC RESPONSE OF HARBOR SEALS (PHOCA VITULINA) TO VACCINATION WITH A RECOMBINANT CANINE DISTEMPER VACCINE

• DOI: 10.7589/2012-06-156
• Publication Date: 2013-06-18T18:54:47Z
• Authors: Nina Quinley; Jonna A. K. Mazet; Rebecca Rivera; Todd L. Schmitt; Christopher Dold; James McBain; Virginia Fritsch; Pamela K. Yochem
• Keywords: Canine distemper; Harbor seal; Morbillivirus; Marine mammal

Morbilliviruses pose a significant threat to marine mammal populations around the world and have been associated with multiple epizootics in pinnipeds cetaceans. As part of preventive veterinary medical program, five harbor seals (Phoca vitulina) managed collection were vaccinated recombinant canarypox-vectored canine distemper virus vaccine. The vaccine was evaluated for safety (by monitoring local systemic adverse effects by testing shedding canarypox vector) efficacy serum neutralizing antibodies). None showed signs or reactions vaccination. Three once did not seroconvert, but induced persistent titer (12 mo) two that twice, 1 mo apart.