Ovine Pulmonary Carcinomas, also known as Ovine Pulmonary Adenocarcinomas (OPA) or Jaagziekte, is a highly contagious and fatal respiratory disease affecting sheep primarily. It is caused by a retrovirus known as Jaagsiekte sheep retrovirus (JSRV). This retrovirus primarily targets the epithelial cells lining the lungs, leading to the development of malignant tumors or carcinomas.
The disease is characterized by progressive and debilitating respiratory symptoms such as coughing, labored breathing, nasal discharge, and weight loss. The affected sheep often exhibit a characteristic "grunting" sound during respiration, hence the name "Jaagziekte" which means "chasing sickness" in Dutch. The disease primarily affects adult sheep, and the progression varies but is generally slow, leading to chronic illness.
Ovine pulmonary carcinomas are highly contagious and spread through inhalation of the virus or contact with infected respiratory secretions. The virus can also be transmitted vertically from an infected ewe to her offspring. Sheep populations housed in close quarters are especially at risk, as the virus can spread rapidly within a flock.
Diagnosis is usually confirmed through a combination of clinical signs, examination of lung tissue after necropsy, and laboratory tests, such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis to detect the presence of JSRV. Treatment options are limited, and there is no cure for the disease. Control measures mainly focus on preventing the spread of the virus through strict biosecurity protocols, isolating infected animals, and culling affected individuals to reduce transmission.
In conclusion, Ovine Pulmonary Carcinomas, caused by the Jaagsiekte sheep retrovirus, is a contagious and fatal respiratory disease affecting sheep. Its respiratory symptoms and the formation
