Orf – Assessing the rapid risk to ruminants

Orf – Assessing the rapid risk to ruminants

From Diseases & Diagnoses by Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory

April 7, 2026 · 10 min

About this episode

This episode discusses the Orf virus affecting ruminants and essential biosafety practices to mitigate its spread.

Orf is a highly contagious virus. Sheep and goats are the species primarily affected, with young lambs and kids being more susceptible due to their underdeveloped immune systems. It's critical that if you suspect Orf in your flock or herd that critical steps are implemented to mitigate the spread. In this episode Dr. Brandon Dominguez discusses biosafety practices, testing options, and other essential factors with Dr. Michael Piccione and TVMDL's new serology section head, Dr. Suzanna Storms.

People in this episode

Host: Dr. Brandon Dominguez

Guests: Dr. Michael Piccione, Dr. Suzanna Storms

Topics covered

  • Orf virus
  • ruminants
  • biosafety practices
  • testing options
  • sheep
  • goats
  • disease mitigation

Keywords

  • Orf
  • contagious virus
  • sheep
  • goats
  • lambs
  • kids
  • immune systems
  • biosafety
  • testing

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory

Places: Texas

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