Aleutian Disease

 
What is Aleutian disease?
Aleutian disease is a fatal disease caused by a virus belonging to the family Parvoviridae. It is the most important infectious disease affecting farm-raised mink.
 
What are the signs of infection?
It can take up to a year for any symptoms of Aleutian disease to be displayed in mink.  Symptoms include lethargy, loss of appetite, weight loss, diarrhea, hind leg weakness, and difficulty walking.  As the disease spreads through a farm it can also cause a decrease in kit production due to abortion and early kit death.
 
How is Aleutian disease transmitted?
Transmission can occur when mink come in contact with body fluids (blood, urine, etc.) from infected animals.  It can also be passed from mother to kits during pregnancy.
 
What can I do to prevent Aleutian disease?
There is no vaccination or treatment for Aleutian disease, but good biosecurity practices and immediate removal of animals known to be infected can help eliminate the disease if it presents on your farm.
 
Am I required to test for Aleutian disease?
For mink being imported into the state, Idaho requires a negative Counterelectrophoresis (CEP) test within 30 days prior to importation.  There is currently no mandatory testing for resident animals, however, it is recommended you contact your veterinarian to schedule testing if you believe the disease may be present on your farm.
 
If you have a question that is not covered here, please contact Animal Industries by email or at (208) 332-8540.