Squirrel Pox carrier for life?

[Paramour]

I have managed to almost clear up a case of squirrel pox in a semi wild squirrel (just a few pox left!). She is currently in a large cage in the house to prevent it from spreading to other squirrels. I've read conflicting info on whether or not they remain carriers for life. My vet suggests she be euthanized, as she believes they remain carriers, and can spread the disease. It breaks my heart to do that since this girl is looking like she is going to beat this awful disease. Does anyone here know if they remain carriers? I think I read on a thread here that someone said they carry it for three weeks after symptoms disappear.

[Mel1959]

That's a VERY GOOD question. I hope someone has the answer. You might try a pm to farm mom, she has dealt with squirrel pox and is also a nurse. I will watch this thread to find out the answer.

[CritterMom]

No, and like measles, they will have some immunity to it in the future. Don't euthanize that poor baby!

[Lighten-Up]

I'm not an expert and I am still learning...so this is simply food for thought.

It is my understanding that pox is a virus, and as such, it can only grab hold in an individual who has a compromised immune system; one who is under stress etc. of some kind. A healthy immune system is capable of keeping a virus out.

Therefore pox is only a threat to those whose immune systems can't keep it out. Meaning that pox has no power of it's own to overcome squirrels, it only overcomes those whose constitutions are in a weakened state. That is why either medications, holistic herbals, and or faith prayers can do a great job helping squirrels overcome pox. Those things come alongside the squirrel and boost the overall health of the squirrel who needs it, so they can push the virus out.

Thus, to be proactive and help support wild squirrels in ways that will keep their immune systems up and well running, is to create a good chance of immunity to pox and other disease stuff in specific squirrel communities.

Note: since medications do compromise the immune system as part of what they do, it might be helpful to give squirrels that receive medications a probiotic to help replenish the good bacteria in their gut flora. This will help ensure that they are strong enough internally to overcome the next thing that they face.