Orf
How orf is treated
Orf is a self-limiting disease, which means it will get better on its own without treatment. It usually clears up within three to six weeks.
It may be useful to cover the lesion with a sterile (hygienic) dressing and immobilise your finger to help reduce discomfort. This may require treatment with antibiotics .
In rare cases the lesion may not go away and a minor surgical procedure maybe required to remove it.
Although there's some evidence to suggest that using topical imiquimod cream may help to reduce lesions, you should speak to your GP or pharmacist for advice first.
Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Dec 2018
Introduction
Read about orf, a viral skin disease that can be spread to humans by handling infected sheep and goats.
Symptoms of orf
In humans, the first sign of orf is a small, red, itchy or painful lump (lesion) that usually appears on the fingers, hands, forearms or face after an incubation period of three to five days. In some
How orf is spread
Orf is a zoonotic disease (zoonosis), which means it can pass between animals and humans. It's not possible for humans to passthe virus on to each other. The virus is spread by handling infected she
How orf is treated
Orf is a self-limiting disease, which means it will get better on its own without treatment. It usually clears up within three to six weeks. It may be useful to cover the lesion with a sterile (hygie
Complications of orf
People with weakened immune systems are more likely to develop complications of orf for example, people with HIV or lupus , or someone who isreceiving chemotherapy . Possible complications include:
Subscribe
Ask the doctor
Rate this article
Find products