Serologic tests to detect antibodies to cowpox virus are not routinely available in hospital laboratories, but may be performed in research laboratories. Previous vaccination with vaccinia may cause false positive results, but these can be eliminated by the use of specific IgM tests. Immunohistochemistry detects cowpox antigens in feline cases. Using electron microscopy, biopsy material may reveal viral particles. As cowpox is generally a self-limited disease, treatment is largely supportive.
Patients often feel unwell and require bed rest or occasionally hospitalization.
Antiviral medications are not helpful, nor are antibiotics unless the patient has developed a secondary bacterial infection. In severe cases, anti-vaccinia gammaglobulin may be given. Standard wound dressings may be applied to lesions. Draining of pus or removal of eschars may actually prolong infection or spread it to other body sites. However, for severe cases with widespread involvement, anti-vaccinia gammaglobulin may be used.