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.
Atlas of pathology
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