Soremouth (contagious ecthyma, scabby mouth, pustular dermatitis, orf) is the most common skin disease affecting sheep (and goats). It is a highly contagious viral infection that can also produce painful human infections. The virus causes scab formation on the skin, usually around the mouth, nostrils, eyes, mammary gland and vulva. It first appears as tiny red nodules, usually at the junction of the lips. Treatment is usually unrewarding. The disease will usually run its course in 1 to 4 weeks.