Canine Distemper Virus (CDV) is a globally significant, highly contagious morbillivirus affecting domestic dogs and a wide range of wildlife species. The virus exhibits broad tissue tropism, leading to multisystemic disease involving the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and central nervous systems, and is associated with high morbidity and mortality in unvaccinated populations. CDV entry is mediated primarily via SLAM (CD150) receptors on immune cells and nectin-4 on epithelial cells, facilitating systemic dissemination and viral shedding. Infection induces profound immunosuppression through lymphoid depletion and antagonism of type I interferon signalling, predisposing hosts to secondary infections and complicating clinical outcomes. Clinical manifestations vary from subclinical infection to severe acute disease and chronic neurologic sequelae, including demyelination and persistent behavioural abnormalities. Diagnosis relies on a combination of clinical assessment, molecular techniques (RT-PCR, qRT-PCR, whole-genome sequencing), serology, antigen detection, and imaging for neurologic involvement. Treatment remains largely supportive, focusing on hydration, nutrition, management of secondary infections, and symptomatic care for neurologic complications, while experimental antivirals and passive immunotherapy are under investigation. Effective prevention depends on high vaccination coverage using modified live and recombinant vaccines, overcoming maternal antibody interference, and integrating biosecurity measures in both domestic and wildlife populations. Recent advances in genomic surveillance, molecular epidemiology, and novel vaccine platforms, including recombinant and mRNA-based approaches, offer promising tools for disease control. This review consolidates current knowledge on CDV pathogenesis, host immune responses, diagnostics, treatment, vaccination strategies, and emerging research priorities, highlighting the importance of a One Health approach for effective management and conservation of susceptible wildlife species.
