Abstract

A case of viral udder infection was diagnosed in a cow brought to the veterinary clinic in Al-Dawra in May 2009. The cow was suffering from the presence of numerous, similar-shaped, slightly raised, dark brown pustules similar to currants in color and shape, but darker and about a quarter smaller than the original size. They completely covered all the teats, and a few were scattered on the lower part of the udder directly above the junction of the teats. Samples of these pustules were sent to the laboratory and research department, but the results failed to isolate the virus. Cowpox, pseudocowpox, and bovine fever mastitis (herpes) are all considered to be the causes of this type of infection, which is difficult to differentiate clinically. However, from the case description and the results of the sample culture, it is believed to be pseudocowpox, which is the first time this type of infection has been described in Iraq.