The silent spread of a misunderstood virus
Camel Contagious Ecthyma (CCE), also known as Auzdik or contagious pustular dermatitis, is a highly infectious viral skin disease affecting camels. The condition is caused by the Camel Contagious Ecthyma Virus (CCEV), which belongs to the Parapoxvirus genus 1 .
Parapoxvirus genus, closely related to Orf virus but with distinct genetic characteristics.
First identified in Kazakhstan in 1968, now reported across camel-rearing regions worldwide.
High morbidity, low mortality, but significant economic losses for camel herders.
Papules, nodules, and vesicles on lips, nose, and mouth 3
Lesions develop into pustules, then thick scabs and fissured crusts
Increased body temperature, profuse salivation, foul mouth smell, facial edema 3
Secondary bacterial infections that can worsen the condition 1
CCEV primarily spreads through direct contact with infected animals or contaminated environments 1 . Some research suggests insects may also play a role in transmission 1 .
While published literature specifically detailing CCE outbreaks in Israel is limited, research confirms that Orf virus (ORFV), the prototypical Parapoxvirus, has demonstrated trans-boundary spread between the West Bank and Israel 5 .
One of the significant challenges in dealing with CCE is that its clinical signs can be remarkably similar to other camel skin diseases, particularly camelpox and camel papillomatosis 4 .
| Disease | Causal Agent | Virus Genus | Zoonotic Potential | Distinguishing Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Camel Contagious Ecthyma | CCEV | Parapoxvirus | Yes | Localized hand infections in humans |
| Camelpox | CMLV | Orthopoxvirus | Rare, mild | Systemic infection in camels |
| Camel Papillomatosis | CDPV | Papillomavirus | Not established | Wart-like growths |
| Research Tool | Function in Diagnosis |
|---|---|
| Vero Cells (ATCC CCL-81) | Enable replication of virus for further study |
| SPF Embryonated Chicken Eggs | Support viral growth and pock formation |
| Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) | Genetic identification and characterization |
| Transmission Electron Microscope | Visualize viral structure |
The definitive identification of CCEV relies on genetic analysis, particularly through polymerase chain reaction (PCR) targeting specific genes. Research from outbreaks in Iran and Morocco has successfully utilized the B2L gene for this purpose 1 3 7 .
In the Moroccan outbreak, researchers extracted DNA from skin lesions and used PCR to amplify a 594-bp fragment of the B2L gene 1 . The resulting sequences were then compared to other Parapoxviruses through phylogenetic analysis.
| Genetic Target | Application |
|---|---|
| B2L Gene | Primary target for PCR identification of CCEV |
| C18L Gene | Used to rule out camelpox through qPCR |
| VIR Gene | Provides additional genetic characterization |
| Complete Genomic Sequencing | Allows full phylogenetic comparison |
CCEV represents a perfect example of the "One Health" concept, as it's a zoonotic pathogen capable of infecting humans 5 6 .
Human infections typically occur through direct contact with infected camels and usually result in localized lesions on the hands 1 6 .
Currently, there is no specific vaccination program for camels against contagious ecthyma in many affected countries, including Iran 3 .
Morbidity Rate in Young Camels
Mortality with Complications
Countries with Reported Cases
Years Since First Identification
The emergence of Camel Contagious Ecthyma in Israel and other regions represents a growing challenge for camel producers and veterinary authorities. As camel farming intensifies in areas like the Arabian Peninsula, the conditions for disease transmission may become more favorable 6 .
The steady increase in reporting of camel-associated zoonotic diseases since 2010 suggests we're either getting better at detection or facing a genuine rise in these diseases—likely both 6 . What's clear is that understanding and controlling CCE will require ongoing surveillance, genetic characterization of circulating strains, and international cooperation across the camel-rearing regions of the Middle East and North Africa.
For a centuries-old livestock industry facing modern challenges, the story of Camel Contagious Ecthyma represents both a threat and an opportunity—to implement science-based solutions that protect both animal welfare and the livelihoods of those who depend on these remarkable desert-adapted creatures.