Is there a vaccination for sore mouth?

Currently, there are commercially available preparations of live virus marketed as vaccines. According to the 2001 NAHMS sheep survey, approximately 5 percent of operators reported using a vaccination for sore mouth in replacement or breeding ewes. More operators (14.0 percent) reported vaccinating their nursing lambs for orf.

What should I keep in mind when using a vaccine?

Producers considering using an orf vaccine product in their flock should consult a veterinarian. Vaccination practices vary depending on breed and geographic location. Use of a vaccine is only suggested for previously infected flocks since the vaccination will cause an orf infection in the animals and lead to contamination of the operation with virus-containing scabs. Studies conducted by experts in Scotland suggest that if a vaccine product is used in a flock, it may decrease the severity of illness.

NOTE: All sore "mouth" vaccines contain live virus which, if proper protective measures are not taken, can cause infection in humans.

Can an animal become infected with sore mouth more than once?

Yes, animals may become infected more than once in their lifetime but repeat infections usually occur after a year's time and are usually less severe.

Can people become infected with sore mouth?

Sore mouth on the finger of a sheep farmer. Photo courtesy Sue Meidl, MD.

Yes, people can become infected with the virus that causes sore mouth. A person who comes into contact with virus from an infected animal or equipment (such as a harness that has rubbed the animal's sores) can potentially get infected. People often develop sores on their hands (see photos). The sore may be painful and can last for 2 months. People do not infect other people.  Sores usually heal without scarring.

Which activities are associated with the greatest risk of becoming infected with sore mouth?

Since sore mouth is primarily an illness of sheep or goats, people who handle these animals are at greatest risk of infection. Specific activities that may put you at risk of infection include:

• Bottle feeding, tube feeding, or shearing animals (i.e., sheep or goats)
• Petting or having casual contact with infected animals
• Handling infected equipment
• Working with animals when you have an open cut or skin sore
• Being bitten by an infected animal

What should I do if I think I have become infected with sore mouth?

Currently there is no approved treatment for sore mouth. However, the sores may be painful and may become infected with bacteria if not properly managed. If you are experiencing pain, fever, or notice that the sore is becoming rapidly larger or spreading, you should see your primary care provider. A laboratory test for sore mouth in people is available at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Contact your county health department for more information.

How can I protect myself and others from getting sore mouth?

The virus that causes sore mouth is spread to people by touching infected animals and their equipment. Some animals may or may not have visible sores but may still be able to spread the virus.

The two ways to protect yourself and others include:

1. Wear non-porous (i.e. rubber or latex) gloves when handling sheep or goats, especially when you have an open cut or sore and are handling the animals mouth/muzzle area.
2. Practice good hand hygiene by washing with clean, warm water and soap for at least 20 seconds (or use a waterless alcohol-based hand rub when soap is not available and hands are not visibly soiled).

Should people with medical conditions work with animals infected with sore mouth?

"Sore mouth" in a person with a weak immune system. Photo courtesy Henry A. DeGroot, MD.

That depends. Most medical conditions do not affect the immune system enough to prevent your body from fighting off the sore mouth virus on its own. However, if you have an autoimmune disease (e.g. Lupus (SLE), rheumatoid arthritis), a transplanted organ, are taking chemotherapy for cancer or are taking corticosteroids (e.g. prednisone), you should talk to your primary care provider about potentially avoiding animal contact. People with these medical conditions have weakened immune systems and the sore mouth virus can cause a serious infection.