Swine pox

Swine smallpox is a vesicular condition caused by a virus and is mainly transmitted through lice.

Alternative names: poxvirus smallpox

This disease is caused by a poxvirus that survives outside the pig during long periods of time and is resistant to environmental changes.

All ages

• Small, round, reddened areas with a diameter of 10 - 20 mm starting as a vesicle containing a yellowish-colored fluid in the center.
• After two or three days the vesicle ruptures and a scab appears that will gradually turn black.
• Injuries can be seen anywhere on the body but most commonly along the flanks, abdomen, and occasionally the ears.
• It can cause secondary dermatitis.
• Not very common in piglets, although it may be congenital.

• It can be spread by lice or scabies.
• Skin abrasions.
• Fighting and mixing of pigs.

• Clinical picture with lab test confirmation.

• There is no treatment.
• Eliminate lice.