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13:42
Clinical Examination Protocol to Detect Atypical and Classical Scrapie in Sheep
Published on: January 19, 2014
Epidemiology of sheep pox
Tropical Animal Health and Production
|November 1, 1982
Summary
Sheep pox outbreaks significantly impacted a flock of indigenous and European crossbred sheep over 18 weeks. Lambs and hoggets showed the highest morbidity, while crossbred hoggets experienced the greatest mortality.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Animal Virology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Sheep pox is a contagious viral disease affecting sheep globally.
- Indigenous and exotic sheep breeds may exhibit varying susceptibility to diseases.
- Understanding disease dynamics in mixed flocks is crucial for effective control.
Purpose of the Study:
- To document the epidemiological characteristics of a sheep pox outbreak.
- To identify susceptible age groups and breed types within the affected flock.
- To determine the impact of sheep pox on morbidity and mortality rates.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of an 18-week sheep pox outbreak.
- Monitoring of incidence, morbidity, and mortality in a flock of 2,191 sheep.
- Categorization of affected animals by breed (purebred indigenous, crossbred) and age (lambs, hoggets).
Main Results:
- The outbreak lasted 18 weeks, with peak incidence and mortality at 5 weeks.
- Purebred and crossbred lambs and crossbred hoggets exhibited the highest morbidity.
- Crossbred hoggets recorded the highest mortality and case fatality rates.
Conclusions:
- Sheep pox can cause significant morbidity and mortality in susceptible sheep populations.
- Crossbred hoggets appear to be particularly vulnerable to severe outcomes.
- Effective disease management strategies are essential to mitigate economic losses in sheep farming.
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