CONTAGIOUS BLOOD DISEASES.' 



729 



not attempt to give any; It is cheaper and safer to stamp out the' 

 disease by killing the patient at once, than to risk the spread of the 

 contagion, in the doubtful experiment of treatment. The well'ani- 

 mals should be isolated, and the stables and sheds thoroughly dis- 

 infected. This may be done by closing them tightly, and burning 

 sulphur in them for two or three hours. After this, the walls and 

 wood-work should be carefully whitewashed. 



RINDERPEST, OR CONTAGIOUS ENTERIC FEVER. 



i i - , 



This deadly disease originated in Asiatic Russia, and is known 

 in Europe as the Steppe Disease, or Russian Cattje-plague. It has 

 extended by the importation of cattle N 



from infected districts to other coun- 

 tries, but fortunately has never gained 

 a foothold in America. 



We give sufficient space to include 

 a description of the symptoms, but treat- 

 ment should never be undertaken, under 

 any circumstances. 



The eruption of the epithelium of the 

 mucous membrane of the lower lip, and 

 th£ erosions on the gum, are plainly 

 shown in Fig. 949. These symptoms 

 are characteristic of this disease. 



Figs. 953 and 954 illustrate some 

 characteristic symptoms of the Rinder- 

 pest. There is no known remedy for 

 this disease. Attempts to treat it result 

 only in spreading its ravages. Vigorous 

 exclusion and stamping out are the only 

 measures of prevention or protection to 

 be depended upon. 



The period of incubation varies from 

 two days to two weeks. During this 

 period no symptoms are apparent, al- 

 though the virus is acquiring the power 

 and malignity observed in its subse- 

 quent development. The first symptom is a rise of temperature, from 

 the normal average of 101° to 103° or 104°. Dullness and prostration 

 of strength, a husky cough, and slightly staring coat are soon 

 noticed. In about two days the breath becomes fetid, and the 

 mouth is unnaturally red and hot to the touch, and a slight eruption 



Fig: 950.— Bloody Extravasation in 

 Papillae ol Skin. 



