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Isolation of poxvirus from debilitating cutaneous lesions on four immature grackles (Quiscalus sp.)

January 1, 1991

Poxvirus was isolated from nodules on four immature grackles (Quiscalus sp.) collected in two residential areas of Victoria, Texas. All of the birds were emaciated and had nodules on the eyelids, bill, legs, toes, and areas of the skin on the wings, neck, and ventral abdomen. These pox nodules were extensive and probably interfered with both sight and flight. The preliminary diagnosis was confirmed by virus isolation, histopathology, and electron microscopy. Poxvirus was isolated on the chorioallantoic membrane of embryonated hen's eggs and in Muscovy duck embryo fibroblast cell culture. Phaenicia calliphoridae (blowfly) larvae were found in one of the pox nodules, raising the possibility of mechanical transmission of the virus by contaminated adult blowfiles. 

Publication Year 1991
Title Isolation of poxvirus from debilitating cutaneous lesions on four immature grackles (Quiscalus sp.)
DOI 10.2307/1591324
Authors D. E. Docherty, R.I.R. Long, Edward L. Flickinger, L. N. Locke
Publication Type Article
Publication Subtype Journal Article
Series Title Avian Diseases
Index ID 1003697
Record Source USGS Publications Warehouse
USGS Organization National Wildlife Health Center