Contagious pustular dermatitis virus, also known by its scientific name Orf virus, is a viral pathogen that primarily affects sheep and goats, although it can occasionally infect other ruminants and even humans. It belongs to the Parapoxvirus genus, which is a group of large, DNA-containing viruses.
This highly contagious virus causes a skin condition called contagious pustular dermatitis, which is characterized by the formation of pustules or blisters on the skin of affected animals. The disease is commonly known as Orf or Scabby Mouth among farmers and veterinarians.
In animals, Contagious pustular dermatitis virus is primarily transmitted through direct contact with infected animals or their lesions. The virus can enter the body through breaks in the skin and replicate within the cells, leading to the characteristic lesions. The pustules typically develop on the lips, mouth, face, and udders of infected animals, and the lesions can be painful, itchy, and often become crusted over.
In humans, contamination generally occurs through contact with infected animals or their secretions, including through handling of infected meat or wool. Although Orf infections in humans are self-limiting and not usually serious, they can cause painful, ulcerative lesions on the skin, which may take several weeks to heal.
Contagious pustular dermatitis virus is of concern primarily as a veterinary disease, as it can cause significant economic losses in affected livestock populations due to reduced productivity, especially in the case of sheep and goats. Therefore, strict biosecurity measures, such as separating infected animals and good hygiene practices, are crucial to prevent its spread.
