Tag

Lepripoxvirus

All articles tagged with #lepripoxvirus

Backyard Squirrels with Wart-Like Growths Explained
science1 month ago

Backyard Squirrels with Wart-Like Growths Explained

Several states have reported squirrels with oozing, wart-like lesions caused by squirrel fibromatosis. The condition is not contagious to humans or pets, and most infected squirrels recover within four to eight weeks. Experts advise against handling the animals and suggest removing bird feeders to reduce crowding, as outbreaks peak in spring and summer; while the disease is usually non-severe, rare cases can spread to organs, according to the Indiana Department of Natural Resources.

Backyard 'Zombie' Squirrels with Oozing Warts Detected Across Several States
science1 month ago

Backyard 'Zombie' Squirrels with Oozing Warts Detected Across Several States

Across several states, residents have spotted squirrels with wart-like, oozing growths, likely caused by squirrel fibromatosis linked to Lepripoxvirus. The tumors usually don't affect the animals’ survival, though in rare cases they can spread to organs. Infections peak in spring and summer. Humans and pets can’t catch it, but experts advise not handling affected squirrels and, to limit spread, consider removing bird feeders.