Print

Treatment

There is no effec­tive treatment for this viral disease. In addition, because the monkeypox virus can be transmitted to humans, any infected prairie dog as well as all animals in contact with the prairie dog should be euthanized.

Living and Management

Though the general outcome of prairie dogs affected with monkeypox infection is poor, steps can be taken to make the living condition of the affected prairie dog more stress-free. Clean and disinfect the cages before allowing the prairie dog inside it. Make sure to provide fresh and clean food and drinking water. Take precaution while handling the sick animal and be sure to wear gloves when cleaning the cage and disposing of contaminated materials. Once you are done, wash your hands and arms thor­oughly.

Follow the supportive care as advised by your veterinarian and do not allow the infected prairie dog to come in contact with other animals.

Prevention

Potential sources of monkeypox infection must be removed, and housing should be thoroughly sani­tized and disinfected. To prevent the spread of the monkeypox infection, house wild animal spe­cies of differing origins separately.