Contagious ecthyma, also known as sore mouth, is a contagious, zoonotic disease of sheep and goat caused by the herpes-like parapox virus. The virus forms scab or pus-like sores typically around the mouth and on the lips of goats. These sores can also appear on face, ears, feet, scrotum, teats, or vulva.  The sores usually last 1-4 weeks, after which the scabs will dry and fall off.  The incidence of the disease may be increasing.

Infection spreads among animals by direct or indirect contact. Infected suckling kids contaminate the udder of dams and spread viruses among siblings. There is no specific treatment. One or a few lesions on the lips or nostrils cause little discomfort to the animal; however, lesions over both lower and upper lips cause intense pain, anorexia, and weight loss. Feeding softer concentrate feed may be beneficial to prevent severe weight loss. Diagnosis is usually by herd history and characteristic lesion.

The virus causing this disease is contagious to humans and any person handling goats with sores should wear rubber gloves. Affected goats should be isolated. When buying goats at a sale or direct from the farm, check for the history of a sore mouth. Some states require quarantine of the farm and no animal can be sold until symptoms are gone.

A live vaccine is available. Do not use vaccine in flocks exposed to the disease. The vaccine is recommended only if a sore mouth is a problem in the herd.