The Parapoxvirus ovis , Orf virus or sheeppox virus is a virus from the genus Parapoxvirus of the smallpox viruses ( Poxviridae ). The virus spreads around the world and infects sheep and goats, but it can also be transmitted to humans. The Orf virus causes a skin disease, see Orf (disease) .
Thumb with two Orf lesions, after being bitten by a sheep
The virus is also potentially pathogenic for humans and can cause an infection ( zoonosis ) in people who come into contact with infected animals (farmers, veterinarians ) . The infection usually occurs via injuries in the skin. The place of infection is usually the hands. The infection manifests itself in the form of reddened, z. T. ulcerated nodules with central necrosis . The symptoms are similar to those by the milker's nodule virus ( Parapoxvirus bovis 2 ) caused Melker node . Occasionally there is also local lymph node swelling . The infection is almost always self-limiting and i. d. Usually after about a month, but can be severe in immunosuppressed people.
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