Economic impact of an ORF outbreak in Puducherry Region

ORF (Contagious Ovine ecthyma, Sour Mouth), a disease caused by Para pox virus, is highly contagious with high morbidity, mortality and economically important viral disease of small ruminants. It is a highly infectious viral disease of sheep and goats characterized by the development of pustular and scabby lesions on the muzzle, lips oral mucous membrane udder and rarely feet. Controlling ORF requires a proper understanding of the epidemiological dynamics and impact of the disease in a range of geographical areas and management systems. Twenty six goats in Thavalakuppam village were showing signs of pustular and scabby lesion on the muzzle, lips and in oral mucous membrane. Scab samples was collected from the affected animal for confirmation of ORF by PCR. Blood samples was collected for haematological, biochemical and C reactive protein analysis from the ORF affected goats. Haematological examination revealed TLC 19.93±1.09 x 103cells/mm3, Haemaglobin 6.85±0.32 g/dl, PCV 17.89±0.46%, TEC 10.67±0.35 x 106 cells/mm3, MCV 13.61±0.24 fl, MCH 5.67±0.11 pg and C reactive value was 76.33±3.49 µg/ml. PCR examination revealed baseper PCR project specific to ORF. Based on history, clinical signs, Haematological examination, PCR examination the case was diagnosed as an ORF. Animals was treated with Inj. Enrofloxacin, Inj. Anti-histamine, supported with oral haematinics and liver supplement. Owner was advised to apply boric acid and glycerine externally on scabby lesion.Morbidity rate in the present ORF outbreak was 65% and Case fatality rate was 19%. Economic analysis was carried out in the 26 ORF affected animals in the goat farm. Treatment cost, extra management, labor cost and reduced selling price due to ORF were calculated to assess the socio economic impact of ORF outbreak in the goat farm.