| Outbreak of sarcoptic mange in a camel herd in Kordavan Selfi Village, Dashti County, Bushehr Province, southern Iran |
| Paper ID : 1034-IPCA5 (R1) |
| Authors |
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Hossein Khaj1, Hassan Bazyar2, Somayeh Bahrami *3, Maryam Abbaszadeh3 1Veterinary Organization of Bushehr province, Bushehr, Iran. 2Veterinary Organization of Bushehr province, Bushehr, Iran 3Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz, Ahvaz, Iran. |
| Abstract |
| Sarcoptic mange is a highly contagious skin disease caused by the mite Sarcoptes scabiei, known not only for its significant health impacts on camel populations but also for its potential to infect humans, leading to similar dermatological issues. This cross-species transmission underscores the importance of monitoring both animal and human health, especially in regions where humans and livestock coexist closely. The primary risk factors in camels include high population density, stress, and poor hygiene conditions. In February 2022, a clinical examination was conducted on a herd of 130 camels suspected of having sarcoptic mange in Kurdavan Soflai, Dashti County, Bushehr Province. During this examination, the veterinary team observed several clinical signs consistent with the disease. Many camels displayed signs of bleeding or bruising on their skin, typically a result of irritation and trauma caused by persistent scratching—a hallmark of mange infections. Severe itching was reported among the camels, a common and distressing symptom associated with mange. The intense itchiness led the animals to scratch excessively, causing further skin damage and resulting in discomfort, behavioral changes such as increased agitation and restlessness, and hyperkeratosis. The latter was characterized by significant thickening of the skin, particularly in the groin, armpits, and hock joints. This thickening indicated a chronic response to irritation from mite infestation and suggested that the condition may have persisted for an extended period. To confirm the diagnosis, skin scrapes were collected from ten camels exhibiting severe clinical signs. The sampling was performed by gently scraping the affected areas with sterile surgical scalpel blades and collecting samples containing the affected skin lesions, including the possible mites. For identification, KOH 10% solution was added to the samples, which were then examined with a light microscope. In the examined specimens, varying numbers of S. scabiei were observed. Following the diagnosis, the camels were treated with ivermectin at a dosage of 1 ml/50 kg body weight, along with a pour-on treatment of flumethrin to assist in managing the mite infestation. Complementary treatments included a powder consisting of essential vitamins to support their recovery. The proactive approach taken by the veterinary team underscores the importance of early detection and intervention in managing potential outbreaks of mange within camel herds. Swift action is crucial for maintaining the health of affected camels and preventing the spread of the condition to other animals in the vicinity. The proactive approach taken by the veterinary team underscores the importance of early detection and intervention in managing potential outbreaks of mange within camel herds. |
| Keywords |
| Camel, Mange, Bushehr, Sarcoptes, Skin scraping |
| Status: Abstract Accepted |
