What is the disease that affects mice called? - briefly
Mousepox, caused by the ectromelia virus, is the primary viral disease of laboratory mice. It produces characteristic skin lesions and can be fatal in susceptible strains.
What is the disease that affects mice called? - in detail
The disease that primarily afflicts mus mus is commonly referred to as «mousepox», caused by the ectromelia virus, a member of the poxviridae family.
Ectromelia virus is a double‑stranded DNA virus that replicates in the cytoplasm of host cells. Transmission occurs through direct contact between infected and susceptible rodents, contaminated bedding, feed, or fomites. The virus is highly stable in the environment, resisting desiccation and moderate temperatures, which facilitates spread in laboratory colonies and breeding facilities.
Clinical presentation includes:
- Sudden onset of fever and lethargy
- Pustular skin lesions, especially on the ears, tail, and ventral abdomen
- Necrotic dermatitis that may coalesce into larger ulcerated areas
- Weight loss and reduced food intake
- High mortality rates in susceptible strains, often reaching 80 % within a week of symptom appearance
Pathological findings reveal widespread viral replication in the epidermis, dermis, and internal organs. Histology shows ballooning degeneration of keratinocytes, intranuclear inclusion bodies, and extensive necrosis. Viremia leads to involvement of the spleen, liver, and lungs, contributing to systemic shock.
Diagnosis relies on:
- Clinical observation of characteristic lesions
- Laboratory confirmation by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) targeting viral DNA
- Virus isolation in permissive cell cultures
- Serological assays detecting specific antibodies
Control measures focus on strict biosecurity:
- Quarantine of new arrivals with testing before introduction
- Use of individually ventilated cages to limit aerosol spread
- Regular disinfection of equipment and housing with agents effective against poxviruses, such as 10 % bleach solutions
- Implementation of sentinel programs to monitor colony health
- Culling of infected animals to prevent outbreak amplification
Vaccination options are limited; experimental attenuated strains have shown efficacy in specific research settings but are not widely approved for routine use. Consequently, prevention through environmental management and early detection remains the cornerstone of disease mitigation.