What is Orf?
Orf is a virus belonging to the Para Poxvirus group that in most cases causes infection in sheep & goats, but can also be passed on to humans. Also commonly known as 'sore mouth' & 'scabby mouth', infected livestock generally develop painful, blistering crusty/scabby lesions around the lips, mouth & muzzle. Nursing ewes may also develop sores around their legs & udders. The incubation period is 3-5 days.
How Can I Prevent Orf?
Always wash your hands after touching animals; administer a live Orf vaccine; keep lambing sheds as clean as possible using a good disinfectant such as Osmonds Zenosan; use dressings to cover cuts or scratches; and help boost the animal's immune status by feeding a good quality colostrum supplement or booster such as Osmonds Sustain.
What is Ringworm?
Ringworm is a common, infectious fungal infection of the skin caused by the fungus Trichophyton Verrucosum. It presents as thickened grey, rough, loosely circular bald areas on the skin, most commonly seen in cattle, often on the face & shoulders. It can affect growth rates, damage/scar the hide, cause irritation, and can also be passed to humans.
How Can I Prevent Ringworm?
Vaccinate; keep housing clean & disinfected; wash hands after handling livestock; and quarantine bought-in animals for a minimum of 2 weeks.
If you experience an outbreak of Orf or Ringworm, try Osmonds Bactakil 55, Osmonds' bestselling product, containing a unique combination of broad-spectrum biocides that help maintain freedom from bacteria, fungi and algae. Spray directly or apply with a clean cloth, taking care around the eyes & mouth, and never apply to the udders of a nursing animal. Use once every 7-10 days and always trial on a small area first.
If you have any questions, please call our office on 01948 668100, email info@osmonds.co.uk or visit our website to see our full range of health & nutritional products for your livestock.
