Alterations in Haematological and Biochemical Parameters in Sokoto Red Goats Infected with Orf Virus: A Case Report

Aims: To determine the alterations in some haematological and serum biochemical parameters in contagious ecthyma (CE) or Orf-infected Sokoto red goats (SRG).

Presentation of Case: Following a complaint of sore mouth disease in SRG, the patients were noticed to be docile, pyrexic with congested visible mucus membranes. There were crusty skin lesions around the oral and nasal commissures which were firm and painful. Blood samples were taken for routine haematological and biochemical investigations and results presented and discussed.

Discussion and Conclusion: There are paucity of information on the haematological and serum biochemical changes associated with CE in SRG. Thus, this case report presents the alterations in some haematological and biochemical parameters in SRG following an outbreak in Sokoto metropolis, Nigeria. Contagious ecthyma was diagnosed based on the presented clinical signs and confirmatory diagnosis via molecular technique, polymerase chain reaction. The affected goats were successfully managed through scrapping, cleaning and disinfecting the scabby lesions. Subsequently, broad spectrum antibiotics and multivitamin injections were administered. In conclusion, the observed clinicopathological changes in SRG were suggestive of an ongoing disease, marked stress and polycythaemia which were associated features of Orf disease in small ruminants.