Herpes Virus Infection in Chinchillas

Once your chinchilla has been exposed to herpes virus, it will become ill with several symptoms, ranging from eye infections to central nervous system disorders, uveitis (eye inflammation), mydriasis (dilation of the pupils) and purulent rhinitis (inflammation of the mucous membranes of the nose, leading to nasal and respiratory symptoms). Because of the virus’ ability to affect the brain and other body organs, the condition could become fatal.

Chinchillas who develop herpes virus infection usually contract it from humans with the disease. Herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) falls within the Herpesviridae family, with the genus Simplexvirus. It’s described as an enveloped DNA virus, which means the virus is enclosed in an outer wrapping. The wrapping itself comes from an infected cell. As the new virus separates from its host, it is spontaneously enclosed in the envelope, which consists of the cell’s plasma membrane.

The sole cause of herpes virus infection in your chinchilla is exposure to a human actively shedding the virus. Individuals who carry HSV-1 and are shedding the virus should avoid contact with chinchillas. Herpes virus infection in a chinchilla is a lifelong condition and treatment is not always possible.

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For your chinchilla, as for humans, the herpes virus infection is a lifelong condition. Curing your pet of the herpes virus infection won’t be possible, but treatment of symptoms related to the herpes infection can make her more comfortable for the duration of her life. Depending on the severity of your pet’s symptoms, your vet may recommend humane euthanasia instead of subjecting her to treatments that may not be effective.

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The outcome for chinchillas who contract herpes virus infection is generally poor. Because the disease affects the brain and central nervous systems of chinchillas who develop this disease, they may die suddenly before their owners know what is making them ill.

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