The Nidovirus - Part 3

The Nidovirus test is positive:

Such a result raises numerous questions.

Not to mention the initial shock that seems to paralyze you for a short time.

The first thing to do is to repeat the test with a different provider.

While waiting for the second result, thoughts often revolve around the topic: "Where could the animal have been infected?"

As I am one of those who have been keeping green tree pythons since 2011, I have been confronted with the fact that I have brought Nidovirus-positive animals into my stock through acquisitions.

Today, I insist not only on a Nidovirus test when I buy new animals, but also on a quarantine test for pythons/boas.

Of course, I pay for this myself, as it is not really necessary.

But it gives me a sense of security.

What should I do if the test is positive?

The animal must be quarantined.

This means that it must not come into contact with any other specimen.

This includes the following:

• Handling the animal with disposable gloves that are discarded after use
• All cleaning utensils must be purchased in duplicate
• Nevertheless, there is a risk of confusion, so disinfect before and after use. The virus can survive for at least 14 days outside its host. In comparison, the Sars-COV-2 virus can survive up to 4 weeks outside its host at low temperatures.
• Never use decorative objects in other terrariums, this should generally not be done
• Never change food animals if they have not been eaten
• In general: Regular disinfection with 70% alcohol and/or Bacillol

One or the other seems logical, but routine is the greatest enemy of common sense.

What's next?

Although it may sound brutal, my infected animals all died within 6 months.

There are Morelia viridis that have tested positive without symptoms.

The vet refuses to euthanize them because the animal is healthy unless it is in the incubation phase of the virus and an outbreak is imminent.

So what to do with a Green Tree Python that has tested positive?

I cannot answer this question, but it is the responsibility of the keeper.

It should be noted that the Morelia viridis population is registered with the Lower Nature Conservation Authority and any deceased animal must be removed from the population.

Therefore, if you have the animal tested before buying, you are well advised to do so.