Feast of Sacrifice and Orf, Milan, Italy, 2015-2018

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Dermatology
• Zoonotic Infections
• Viral Pathogenesis

Background:

• Orf (ecthyma contagiosum) is a common viral skin disease in livestock, caused by a Parapoxvirus.
• Human orf infections are typically acquired through direct contact with infected animals or contaminated environments.
• The Feast of Sacrifice (Eid al-Adha) involves animal slaughter, presenting opportunities for zoonotic disease transmission.

Discussion:

• This case series identifies a cluster of orf infections in men who participated in the Feast of Sacrifice in Milan, Italy.
• The findings suggest a potential occupational or ritualistic transmission route of orf virus in an urban setting.
• The clinical presentation and epidemiological link warrant further investigation into the specific practices during the Feast of Sacrifice that may facilitate transmission.

Key Insights:

• Seven cases of orf (ecthyma contagiosum) were documented in Muslim men in Milan, Italy.
• Infection acquisition was linked to participation in the Feast of Sacrifice.
• This observation points to a specific event as a potential source for human orf transmission.

Outlook:

• Further research is needed to confirm the Feast of Sacrifice as a significant transmission event for orf.
• Public health awareness campaigns may be beneficial in regions where the Feast of Sacrifice is practiced.
• Enhanced surveillance for orf in both animal populations and humans during this period could help prevent future outbreaks.