Contagious ecthyma (orf) is a lip lesion disease most commonly associated with which species?

Contagious ecthyma (orf) is a lip lesion disease most commonly associated with which species?

• A. Goat
• B. Sheep
• C. Horse
• D. Cow

Answer: (B)

Orf is a contagious ecthyma caused by a parapoxvirus that produces proliferative, scabby lesions around the lips and muzzle. It is classically seen in sheep; sheep are the primary reservoir and the species most frequently affected, especially in young lambs. Goats can be affected as well, but the disease is far more commonly described in sheep, whereas horses and cows are not typical hosts. Transmission occurs through direct contact with infected animals or contaminated material, and humans can acquire mild hand lesions from handling infected animals.

Orf is a contagious ecthyma caused by a parapoxvirus that produces proliferative, scabby lesions around the lips and muzzle. It is classically seen in sheep; sheep are the primary reservoir and the species most frequently affected, especially in young lambs. Goats can be affected as well, but the disease is far more commonly described in sheep, whereas horses and cows are not typical hosts. Transmission occurs through direct contact with infected animals or contaminated material, and humans can acquire mild hand lesions from handling infected animals.