Astrovirus (hAstro)

Astrovirus (hAstro) refers to human astrovirus, a virus linked to the gastrointestinal tract that can be detected in stool. It is not considered a normal part of the dog’s gut microbiome. A finding may reflect exposure through water, food, surfaces, or shared environments that have been contaminated with faeces. Astroviruses are mainly linked to the stomach and intestines, where they may be associated with diarrhoea, vomiting, altered stool quality, reduced appetite, low energy, or signs of gut irritation. Because hAstro is primarily known as a human astrovirus, a finding in a dog sample should be interpreted carefully. A positive finding may be useful to review with a veterinarian, especially if digestive signs are present or if there are hygiene concerns in a shared environment.

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