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.