Sheep and goats play a crucial role in the economy of the rural population through their contributions of meat, wool, and hides. However, their productivity is threatened by various infectious diseases, with sheep and goat pox (SGP) being particularly significant. The economic impact of pox diseases extends beyond animal health, as they hinder the international trade of ovine and caprine livestock and their derivatives. While the symptoms of sheep and goat pox (SGP) can be suggestive, a conclusive diagnosis can only be reached through laboratory testing. The condition's etiology can be attributed to distinct yet closely related viral pathogens: the Sheep pox virus (SPV) affecting sheep and the goat poxvirus (GPV) infecting goats. These viral agents exhibit notable antigenic and genomic homology, not only with each other but also with the lumpy skin disease virus (LSDV) responsible for lumpy skin disease (LSD). Taxonomically, all three viruses are classified within the genus Capripoxvirus, a member of the Poxviridae family. In some regions, SPV and GPV can infect each other's hosts, complicating diagnosis and epidemiological studies. Recent research has shown that these viruses are phylogenetically distinct, and molecular tools can be used to differentiate them. The most effective control measure for SGP is vaccination with attenuated vaccines, which provide long-lasting immunity. Comprehensive information on the isolation, identification, pathology, epidemiology, diagnosis, and prevention of sheep pox is essential. Such knowledge is valuable for the scientific community and policymakers to develop effective strategies for controlling and eradicating the disease. This chapter presents an updated overview of sheep and goat pox and its management.
Sheep and goat pox, Economic importance, Risk factors, Prevention and control
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