What is Vesicular Stomatitis? Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

Written by Medicover Team and Medically Reviewed by Dr K Rama Murty , General Medicine

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1. Causes 2. Find a Doctor 3. Diagnosis 4. Treatment 5. FAQs

Vesicular stomatitis is a rare viral zoonotic disease that can spread from infected animals, such as horses, cattle, and pigs, to humans. It is caused by the vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV) and is transmitted through direct contact with infected animals, contaminated materials, or the bites of infected insects such as sand flies and black flies.

Human infection is usually mild and self-limiting, causing flu-like symptoms and, in some cases, painful blisters or sores in the mouth. Most people recover completely within one to two weeks with supportive care.

Although uncommon in humans, the disease can resemble other viral infections with oral lesions, making accurate diagnosis important. Good hygiene, protective clothing, and avoiding exposure to infected animals can help reduce the risk of infection.

What are the Symptoms of Vesicular Stomatitis?

Symptoms of vesicular stomatitis usually develop within 2 to 8 days after exposure to the virus. Most infections in humans are mild, but symptoms can cause discomfort and temporarily interfere with eating and drinking.

Fever
Chills
Headache
Muscle aches
Joint pain
Fatigue
Weakness
Sore throat
Painful blisters in the mouth
Mouth ulcers
Blisters on the lips
Difficulty swallowing
Pain while eating or drinking
Skin blisters on the hands or fingers in some cases

What are the Causes of Vesicular Stomatitis?

Vesicular stomatitis is caused by the vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV), a member of the Rhabdoviridae family. Humans become infected mainly through contact with infected animals or insect vectors.

Direct contact with infected horses, cattle, pigs, or other livestock
Handling saliva, blister fluid, or tissues from infected animals
Bites from infected sand flies
Bites from infected black flies
Contact with contaminated animal equipment or surfaces
Exposure to infected animal secretions
Working with infected livestock without protective equipment

When to see a Doctor for Vesicular Stomatitis?

If you develop symptoms of vesicular stomatitis after exposure to infected animals or insect bites, consult a General Medicine specialist promptly. Early diagnosis can help confirm the infection, rule out other conditions with similar symptoms, and provide appropriate supportive care.

If you develop fever after contact with infected livestock
If you have painful blisters or ulcers in your mouth
If you experience difficulty eating or swallowing due to mouth sores
If you develop blisters on your hands or fingers after handling infected animals
If you have severe body aches or persistent fatigue
If your symptoms last longer than one week
If your symptoms become worse instead of improving
If you have a weakened immune system and develop symptoms of infection
If you have recently worked in an area with a vesicular stomatitis outbreak
If your symptoms persist or worsen, consult a General Medicine specialist promptly for comprehensive evaluation and appropriate treatment.

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How is Vesicular Stomatitis Diagnosed?

Diagnosis of vesicular stomatitis is based on symptoms, exposure history, and laboratory testing. Since it can resemble other viral infections, specific tests are often required to confirm the diagnosis.

Medical history and physical examination
Assessment of recent contact with infected animals
History of insect exposure
Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test
Viral culture from blister fluid or throat swabs
Blood tests to detect antibodies against the virus
Laboratory tests to rule out herpes simplex infection
Laboratory tests to rule out hand, foot, and mouth disease

What are the Treatment Options for Vesicular Stomatitis?

There is no specific antiviral treatment for vesicular stomatitis in humans. Treatment mainly focuses on relieving symptoms and supporting recovery until the infection resolves naturally.

Adequate rest
Drinking plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration
Pain-relieving medications as recommended by a healthcare provider
Fever-reducing medications
Antiseptic mouth rinses for oral sores
Soft and bland foods to reduce mouth irritation
Maintaining good oral hygiene
Treatment of secondary bacterial infections if they occur

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What are the Risk Factors of Vesicular Stomatitis?

Certain occupations and environmental exposures increase the risk of vesicular stomatitis in humans. Individuals who frequently work with livestock or are exposed to insect vectors are at greater risk.

Working with cattle
Working with horses
Working with pigs
Veterinary practice
Livestock farming
Handling infected animals
Exposure to infected sand flies
Exposure to infected black flies
Living in areas where vesicular stomatitis outbreaks occur
Not using protective gloves or clothing while handling livestock
Contact with contaminated animal equipment or environments

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What early signs should I look for with vesicular stomatitis?

Early signs of vesicular stomatitis include fever, blisters or ulcers in the mouth, on teats, and coronary bands. Lameness may also occur.

2. What precautions should be taken for vesicular stomatitis?

Isolate affected animals, prevent insect bites, handle with gloves, and avoid sharing equipment to prevent the spread of vesicular stomatitis.

3. What serious complications could arise from vesicular stomatitis?

Rarely, vesicular stomatitis can lead to dehydration, secondary infections, and neurological issues. It may require supportive care and monitoring.

4. What steps should I take for the management of vesicular stomatitis?

Manage vesicular stomatitis with supportive care, rest, pain relief, and good oral hygiene. Consult a healthcare provider for specific treatment recommendations.