Requirements for cowpox infections
(1) resevoir for the virus
(2) susceptible host
(3) means of transmission
Wild rodents are a common resevoir in the environment. These may include voles, mice and rats.
A person is susceptible if:
(1) the person has not been vaccinated against smallpox or cowpox, or
(2) the person has not been exposed to cowpox in the past
With the discontinuation of smallpox vaccination and increasing numbers of immunocompromised patients, the risk of cowpox will increase over time.
The virus may be transmitted by contact with:
(1) cats
(2) rodent pets
(3) wild rodents
(4) rarely cattle
Contact may take the form of:
(1) a bite
(2) a scratch or abrasion
(3) saliva or other body fluids
