Sore mouth infection overview

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]

“Sore mouth” is a viral infection caused by a member of the poxvirus group and is an infection primarily of sheep and goats.

Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) is a serious disease that does resemble sore mouth and can affect sheep, goats, cattle, swine, and other “cloven-hoofed” animals. Although FMD has not occurred in the United States since 1929, if there are symptoms you observe in your animals that appear more serious than sore mouth, immediately report it to your veterinarian, to State or Federal animal disease control officials, or to your county agricultural agent.

Geographically, “sore mouth” infection is commonly found throughout the world. According to the United States Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service’s National Animal Health Monitoring System (USDA APHIS NAHMS) 2001 sheep survey, 40 percent of U.S. operations reported sore mouth infecting their flocks in the previous three years.

Sore mouth is generally found only in sheep and goats. Other ruminants that are occasionally infected include musk oxen and gazelles.

The sore may be painful and can last for 2 months. People do not infect other people. Sores usually heal without scarring.

Animals may become infected more than once in their lifetime but repeat infections usually occur after a year’s time and are usually less severe.

Currently there is no approved treatment for sore mouth. However, the sores may be painful and may become infected with bacteria if not properly managed. If you are experiencing pain, fever, or notice that the sore is becoming rapidly larger or spreading, you should see your primary care provider.

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