ATTENTION: Orf-infected Muskox in Thaıdene Nëné

Residents and visitors are advised that a muskox with signs of Orf (Contagious Ecthyma) has been seen in Thaıdene Nëné.

Orf can infect people if they touch affected areas. However, it is not life-threatening. Also, the meat is safe to eat if you trim off the affected parts.

What are signs of Orf?

• Pus-filled blisters and thick scabs on lips, mouth, nose, eyelids, ears, udders, or above the hoof.

What should I do if I see a muskox that appears to have Orf?

• Take photos and note the location of muskoxen you believe to have Orf and send it to [email protected].

What should I do if I harvest a muskox that appears to have Orf?

• Wear gloves and wash your hands, knives and clothes with hot, soapy water after you finish butchering.
• Don't touch scabs or anything that has touched the scabs.
• Don't cut into blisters or scabs.
• Collect samples of the scabs and surrounding unaffected area after butchering. Ask your local ECC office for sample kits.

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More information about Orf can be found on pages 8 and 9 of the Field Guide for Wildlife Diseases.

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