Ectromelia Infectious

A disease caused by the ectromelia virus.

Ectromelia (mousepox, mousepox) is an acute viral disease of animals and humans, characterized by the formation of multiple small blisters on the skin, merging into large lesions with the formation of crusts and subsequent scarring.
The causative agent of the disease is a DNA-containing virus of the herpesvirus family, belonging to the genus Orthopoxvirus. The virus has the shape of an oval with rounded ends. Microscopic examination of tissues affected by the virus reveals giant multinucleated cells - giant Reed-Sternberg cells, which contain many nuclei. A huge number of virus nucleocapsids are found in the cytoplasm of these cells.
The ectromelia virus is transmitted through contact with infected animals, as well as through care items for sick animals and contaminated feed.
The disease manifests itself in the form of multiple blisters on the skin and mucous membranes. The mucous membranes of the oral cavity, pharynx, and larynx become bright red, swell, and become covered with mucus. Blisters form on the skin, which quickly burst and form ulcers. In severe cases of the disease, large blisters appear on the body. Skin lesions may be accompanied by an increase in body temperature to 40–41 °C.
The incubation period lasts from 2 to 7 days.
Treatment: There is no specific treatment. Sick animals are given rest. Antibiotics and sulfa drugs are prescribed. Animals that have recovered from the disease develop strong immunity.
Prevention: compliance with the rules of keeping animals, disinfection.

Infectious ectromelia: study and characteristics of the disease

Introduction:
Ectromelia infectiosum, also known as mouse pox, is a rare viral disease that affects rodents, especially mice. This disease is caused by a virus belonging to the Poxpoxvirus family and can have serious consequences in rodent populations. In this article, we will review the basic aspects of ectromelia infectiosum, including its epidemiology, clinical presentation, diagnosis, and treatment.

Epidemiology:
Ectromelia infectiosum occurs in various species of rodents, but mice are most commonly affected. This virus spreads through contact with infected animals or their secretions. It can be transmitted vertically from mother to offspring and horizontally when an infected animal comes into contact with a healthy one. Ectromelia infectiosum usually occurs in the form of epizootics, that is, outbreaks of the disease among rodents, and can have serious consequences for the population.

Clinical presentation:
After an incubation period, which can last from several days to several weeks, infected rodents begin to show clinical signs of ectromelia infectiosum. They include the formation of papules, vesicles and ulcers on the skin, especially on the extremities. This process may be accompanied by edema, hyperemia and tissue necrosis. In some cases, the disease can progress to systemic complications such as pneumonia and hemorrhagic syndrome.

Diagnostics:
The diagnosis of infectious ectromelia in rodents can be made based on clinical signs and epidemiological data. However, laboratory testing is usually required to confirm the diagnosis and identify the virus. Techniques such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and immunofluorescence microscopy may be used for this purpose.

Treatment and prevention:
There is currently no specific treatment for ectromelia infectiosum in rodents. However, taking measures to control the infectious environment, such as disinfection and sanitation measures, can help prevent the spread of the disease. In addition, the development of vaccines against Ectromelia infectiosum may be an important intervention for the protection of rodent populations.

Conclusion:
Ectromelia infectiosum, or mouse pox, is an important disease that affects rodent populations, especially mice. Its epidemiology, clinical presentation, diagnosis and treatment require further study to develop effective control and prevention measures. Understanding this disease and its impact on the ecosystem can be useful for protecting animal and human health. Further research and collaboration between veterinary and medical sciences will help to more fully understand Ectromelia infectiosum and develop management strategies.