Diseases of cattle in the Solomon Islands

Between 1967 and 1977 a study was made of diseases of cattle in the Solomon Islands. Tuberculosis was found in only 3 herds and was eradicated by 1975. Brucellosis serology revealed very few reactors and by 1977 the herds involved were considered free of the disease. Significant serological reactions were found to Leptospira interrogans serovars pomona, hardjo, autumnalis and jez-bratislava. There was evidence that infectious bovine rhinotracheitis and mucosal disease were present. Seventeen parasites were identified of which Haematobia irritans exigua, Haemonchus placei, Oesophagostomum radiatum and Ceylonocotyle streptocoelium were widely distributed. Nutritional stress occurred under some forms of husbandry but environmental stress was minimal. The Solomon Islands are therefore in a most favourable situation with regard to diseases of cattle.