Orf, a Human Parapoxvirus Infection

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Zoonotic Diseases
• Virology

Background:

• Parapoxvirus infections are common globally in ruminants, causing oral lesions and dermatitis.
• Transmission occurs through direct contact with contaminated items or indirect contact with lesions.
• These zoonoses are often neglected due to unknown or overestimated incidence and unclear transmission modes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the significance of a One Health approach in diagnosing and treating parapoxvirus infections.
• To emphasize cross-sector collaboration between human and veterinary medicine.
• To provide a comprehensive overview of parapoxvirus infections in humans, with a focus on orf virus.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on parapoxvirus infections in animals and humans.
• Discussion of diagnostic challenges and treatment strategies.
• Emphasis on epidemiological surveillance and One Health principles.

Main Results:

• Orf virus is the primary human pathogen, affecting various ruminant species and transmissible to people.
• The virus is detectable in crusts for extended periods and resistant to heat and dryness.
• Lesions in immunocompetent individuals typically resolve within two months, while immunosuppressed patients may require varied treatments.

Conclusions:

• Accurate etiological diagnosis and appropriate therapy are essential for managing parapoxvirus zoonoses.
• A One Health approach and interdisciplinary collaboration are vital for effective disease control.
• Understanding virus-host interactions is key to developing defense mechanisms against the immune system.