Prevention and Control Methods and Key Technical Points for Contagious Ecthyma in Sheep

Contagious ecthyma in sheep, commonly known as "sheep sore mouth", is caused by a virus and presents as papules, pustules, ulcers and wart-like thick scabs on the skin and mucous membranes of the lips and other areas. It is mainly transmitted through pens, equipment or skin abrasions, occurs in outbreaks, and can cause continuous harm in a flock for many years.

Prevention and Control

1. Carry out regular immunization. In March or September each year, inject 0.2 ml of attenuated contagious ecthyma cell freeze-dried vaccine into the oral mucosa of each sheep.

2. Use less coarse and hard feed, and strictly prevent wound infection. Isolate sick sheep promptly, and disinfect pens and equipment with 2% caustic soda, 10% lime milk or 20% hot plant ash water.

3. Rinse the affected area with 0.1-0.2% potassium permanganate solution, then apply 2% gentian violet, iodine glycerin, 5% oxytetracycline ointment or penicillin nitrofurazone ointment, etc., 1-2 times/day. For severe cases, symptomatic treatment should also be given.