An investigation of camelpox outbreaks in two principal camel (Camelus dromedarius) rearing areas of Kenya
Abstract
In 1992, during an investigation into camelpox in two principal camel-rearing
areas of Kenya, the disease was found in 1,100 camels at a prevalence of 6% in
Turkana and 27% in Samburu. In Turkana, outbreaks were detected in two herds
of young animals, while in Samburu, outbreaks were found in two herds of adult
animals as well as in two herds of young camels. In all cases, there was 100%
morbidity in the affected herds. When young camels were involved, the main
lesions were confined to the mouth, nose and muzzle as distinct pustular lesions.
In adults, there was also extensive oedema of the head and neck. Direct electron
microscopy and virus isolation on tissue culture were used to confirm the
orthopoxvirus infection. The outbreaks appeared related to the stress of weaning
and, in the case of the adults, to recent long-distance travel.
Citation
Rev. sci. tech. Off. int. Epiz., 1997,16 (3), 841-847Publisher
Department of Veterinary Pathology, Microbiology & Parasitology Faculty of Veterinary Medicine University of Nairobi