Louping ill
Louping ill (pronounced: /ˈluːpɪŋ ɪl/) is a viral disease that primarily affects sheep, but can also infect other animals and humans. The term "louping ill" is derived from the Old Norse word "hlaupa", which means "to leap", and the Old English word "ill", which means "sickness". The disease is characterized by a sudden onset of high fever, followed by neurological symptoms such as unsteady gait, tremors, and in severe cases, paralysis.
Etiology
Louping ill is caused by the Louping ill virus, a member of the Flavivirus family. The virus is transmitted by the sheep tick (Ixodes ricinus), which is the primary vector. The virus can also be transmitted directly from animal to animal through contact with infected bodily fluids.
Symptoms
In sheep, the disease is characterized by a sudden onset of high fever, loss of appetite, and general weakness. This is followed by neurological symptoms such as unsteady gait, tremors, and in severe cases, paralysis. In humans, the disease can cause flu-like symptoms, including fever, headache, and muscle pain. In severe cases, it can lead to encephalitis, a potentially life-threatening inflammation of the brain.
Treatment and Prevention
There is no specific treatment for louping ill. Management of the disease involves supportive care, including hydration and pain relief. Prevention strategies include tick control measures and vaccination of sheep.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Louping ill
- Wikipedia's article - Louping ill
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