ORANGE — The state’s Division of Animal Health is warning about an outbreak in Franklin County of a highly contagious, potentially fatal disease that spreads between dogs.

Symptoms of canine parvovirus, commonly known as parvo, usually develop after a three- to seven-day incubation period and include severe vomiting, diarrhea, bloody stools, fever, lethargy and loss of appetite. According to the Division of Animal Health, part of the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources, the virus does not affect humans or other domestic animals but dogs that recover from it can remain infectious for several months.

At least one dog, recently purchased from Jason Whitmore at 35 Daniel Shays Highway in Orange, has been affected and the property is now under quarantine. Anyone who purchased a dog from Whitmore on or after Dec. 1 should contact their veterinarian immediately if their animal exhibits symptoms.

Attempts by the Greenfield Recorder to contact Whitmore were unsuccessful on Friday.

According to the state Division of Animal Health, vaccinations effectively prevent canine parvovirus, and dog owners are urged to check with their veterinarians to confirm their pets are protected. Puppies require a series of vaccinations, and adult dogs may need a yearly booster.

State animal health officials advise against giving the animal any medications except as prescribed by a veterinarian. Any medicines provided at the time of purchase should not be administered to the animal and, instead, should be securely stored.

Contact the state Division of Animal Health at 617-626-1795 with any concerns.

Additional information about canine parvovirus is provided by the American Veterinary Medical Association at tinyurl.com/AVMACanine.

Reach Domenic Poli at: dpoli@recorder.com or 413-930-4120.