From Scab to Sequence: Whole-Genome Analysis of Orf Virus Isolated from Oral Lesions in Sheep

Among the many pathogens in the Parapoxvirus genus, the Orf virus (ORFV) is one of the most dangerous because of its high contagiousness and potential for zoonotic transmission, especially to people who interact with goats and sheep. Presently, there exists no specific treatment for ORF virus infection, leading to substantial economic losses in livestock farming. Because of its environmental adaptability and capacity to re-infect its host, the virus is common in many species and can remain there for a long time. Here, we provide the whole genome sequencing of ORF virus strain, which was obtained from a sheep displaying severe clinical signs of illness.