• A parvovirus, a small (20 mm diameter) unenveloped, single-stranded DNA virus.
• Only one serotype known.
• Closely related to the recently emerged canine parvovirus, but minor differences do exist both in the viral DNA and antigenically.
• Parvoviruses have an affinity and requirement for actively dividing cells.
• Very stable virus in external environment; may survive in infected premises for up to a year.
• Susceptible to only a limited number of common disinfectants, e.g. hypochlorite, glutaraldehyde, or formaldehyde.

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