NEW ORLEANS -- A viral outbreak that spread through an animal shelter in Louisiana has led to the deaths of more than 170 animals, officials said.

Animal control officials have shut down the Tangipahoa Parish Animal Shelter in Hammond, La., in an effort to prevent any further spread of the canine coronavirus, New Orleans station WDSU reported.

The disease infected dozens of dogs and cats with devastating consequences. Many became violently ill as the virus passed from animal to animal. Workers euthanized many of the infected animals.

A massive cleaning effort is now under way at the facility, which typically takes in 5,000 or more homeless animals each year.

No new animals are being accepted during that cleanup process, which will last several days.

Canine coronavirus primarily affects the intestinal tract of dogs. Signs may include fever, loss of appetite, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Officials said the virus is not always fatal. Once infected, a dog becomes a "carrier" for several weeks -- even after recovery. The virus can then live in the environment for several months.