SHEEP AND GOAT POX

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Causative Agent(s)

Sheep-pox virus and goat-pox virus are classified together with lumpy skin disease virus in the genus Capripoxvirus (family Poxviridae). Sheep-pox and goat-pox viruses are distinct viruses, but recombination can occur between them. The viruses cannot be distinguished from each other with current techniques. They are closely related, both antigenically and physiochemically

Clinical Presentation and Epidemiology

The clinical picture is similar in the two diseases but is generally less severe in goats. Systemic signs may include fever (40-42oF), conjunctivitis, rhinitis, anorexia, lymphadenopathy, and depression. The mucous membranes can become necrotic, and animals may develop a mucopurulent nasal or ocular discharge. Widespread skin lesions develop and are most readily seen on the muzzle, ears, and areas free of wool or long hair. Lesions on the skin start as erythematous areas and progress rapidly to raised, circular plaques with congested borders caused by local inflammation, oedema, and epithelial hyperplasia. In severe cases, lesions can develop in the lungs resulting to dyspnoea (respiratory distress) which can lead to death. As skin lesions start to regress, necrosis of the dermis occurs and dark hard scabs form, which are sharply separated from the surrounding skin. Secondary bacterial infections are common, and death can occur at any stage of the disease.

Diagnostic Consideration

Sample to collect include skin lesions (e.g., biopsies, scrapings, vesicular fluid, scabs), oral, nasal, and ocular secretions

Diagnostic Method: PCR

Management and Treatment
  • Systemic administration of a broad-spectrum antibiotic is important to control secondary bacterial infection.
  • Systemic antibiotics eg: Oxytetracycline LA, Procaine penicillin
  • NSAID: Flunixin meglumine, ketoprofen
  • Clean ulcers on the skin with antiseptic (Povidone-Iodine 10% Solution at alternative OR with potassium permanganate solution)
  • Oxytetracycline LA 20 mg/kg IM, repeat after 2-4 days
  • Penicillin G 10,000IU/Kg, SID X 7/7
  • Procaine penicillin 2,000,000 IU and streptomycin sulphate 5g 2ml/50kg IM, SID x5/7
  • Flunixin meglumine 2 mg/kg IV SID x3/7
  • Ketoprofen 3mg/kg IM X 5/7

 

Vaccination is recommended for animals of all ages. Lambs and kids should be vaccinated at 12-16 weeks of age and then annually.