Update on llama medicine. Viral diseases.

Abstract

Expanding interest in New World Camelids presents a unique challenge to veterinarians engaged in diagnosing infectious diseases of these species. Little basic research has been conducted in this area. Much of our information is incomplete and based on serologic surveys and personal communication with virologists in diagnostic laboratories. This review is a summary of our current knowledge of the common viral diseases of llamas and alpacas. It is hoped that it will serve as a catalyst for a more complete understanding of this topic in the future.