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Chlamydial infections in small ruminants
1Department of Diagnostic Medicine/Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas, USA. nietfeld@vet.ksu.edu
The Veterinary Clinics of North America. Food Animal Practice
|August 23, 2001
Summary
Chlamydophila abortus causes significant reproductive failure in sheep and goats, leading to abortions late in gestation. Infected ewes develop resistance but can become persistent carriers, shedding the bacteria during estrus.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Microbiology
- Animal Reproduction
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Chlamydophila abortus is a primary cause of abortion in sheep and goats, particularly in intensive farming systems.
- Reproductive failure typically occurs in the final weeks of gestation.
- Chlamydophila pecorum also affects small ruminants, causing eye and joint infections.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize the impact of Chlamydophila abortus on small ruminant reproductive health.
- To differentiate the disease manifestations of Chlamydophila abortus and Chlamydophila pecorum.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of Chlamydophila infections in small ruminants.
- Analysis of disease presentation and host response.
Main Results:
- Chlamydophila abortus infection leads to late-term abortions in sheep and goats.
- Ewes that abort develop immunity but can become asymptomatic carriers, shedding the organism during estrus.
- Chlamydophila pecorum is associated with keratoconjunctivitis and polyarthritis.
Conclusions:
- Chlamydophila abortus poses a significant threat to sheep and goat reproduction.
- Understanding carrier states and disease differentiation is crucial for flock management.