Is Cowpox Virus Infection: An Emerging Health Threat

Abstract

The orthopox virus is the zoonosis that causes cowpox. Edward Jenner describes it for the first time in relation to the variola virus vaccination. Despite their name, cows are not the primary source of infection; cats are more likely to get the virus by eating mice and rats that are sick. The primary hosts of the cowpox virus are house mice, short-tailed field voles, wood mice and bank voles. The incubation duration is seven to twelve days, occasionally three weeks.While the smaller peak happens in the winter (February–March), the larger peak happens in the late summer/autumn (August–October). The virus causes mucous membrane or skin infections, which lead to the development of a localized pustular skin illness. Elisa testing, real-time PCR, and several other diagnostic techniques can identify it. While there isn't a specific antiviral medication licensed to treat cowpox infections, cidofovir can be used in more complex instances. It may be important to have plastic surgery to prevent significant cosmetic repercussions. This review paper examines cowpox, focusing on its epidemiology and treatment.