All pasture visits at the Glims 4H animal yard in summer 2026 are CANCELLED

The 4H animal yard operating in the Glims museum area will not organise pasture visits during summer 2026, as some of the sheep have contracted the orf virus. The sheep are being well cared for, and orf usually heals on its own, but they need peace and quiet to recover. We follow the instructions given by the authorities, and therefore all pasture visits for the summer are cancelled.

The sheep and goats will continue spending their summer at Glims, and you can come to see them from behind the fence at the 4H animal yard just as before. The feeding demonstrations will also continue. However, the sheep must not be touched, and visitors may not enter the enclosure. Let’s give the animals the peace they need to recover. Thank you for your understanding!

What is the orf virus?

At the end of June, several sheep at the Glims animal yard were diagnosed with orf. Orf is a contagious skin disease of sheep and goats caused by a parapoxvirus. It typically causes sores or blisters around the animal’s mouth, muzzle, udder or between the hooves. It usually heals on its own without treatment within 3–6 weeks.

The virus can be transmitted from animals to humans. In most cases, infections occur in people such as animal caretakers or slaughterhouse workers; in short or occasional contact, the risk is significantly lower. Infection can occur through touching a symptomatic animal or equipment used with it. The risk increases if the person has cuts or skin damage.

Orf does not spread between humans. Protection includes using gloves when handling animals and maintaining good hand hygiene.

More information about the animal yard: www.pks4h.fi