Herpesvirus epidemic in Greek (Testudo hermanni) and Moorish land tortoises (Testudo graeca) in Switzerland

Based on an epidemic in Switzerland, the histopathological findings of a viremic Herpes infection in Spur-tailed and Spur-thighed mediterranean land tortoises are described for the first time. Horizontal viral transmission has been proved; the vertical transmission is suggested. An impression smear of the tongue enables an early clinical diagnosis.