Orf
Orf Causes
The disease is caused by the orf virus that belongs to the genus Parapoxvirus where in it also includes milker's nodule virus.
Orf Definition
Orf is described as a viral disease that commonly infects sheep and goats. It can be easily acquired by humans through direct contact of infected animals or contaminated fomites. It was also reported that reindeers have caused similar cuts to humans.
Orf Diagnosis
Electron microscopy to confirm clinical diagnosis Tissue culture Conventional histopathology Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to determine a parapoxvirus as orf virus
Orf Symptoms and Signs
Lesions on the fingers, the hands, or the forearms Regional adenitis Mild fever and malaise Lesions that are large and fungating
Orf Treatment
Medical care: symptomatic treatment with moist dressings, local antiseptics, immobilization of the finger, systematic or topical antibiotics to treat bacterial infection Surgical care: underlying dermis dissection for large exophytic lesions, curettage and electrodesiccation for persistent lesion, Shave excision another way to treat lesion, Cryotherapy to speed up recovery.