Swine pox

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

Alternative names: poxvirus smallpox

Information

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

 

Symptoms

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.

 

Causes / Contributing Factors

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

 

Diagnosis

  • Clinical picture with lab test confirmation.

 

Control/Prevention

  • There is no treatment.
  • Eliminate lice.

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