Infections associated with ovine perinatal mortality in Victoria

The occurrence of infections associated with perinatal mortality was investigated. In 1970, carcasses from 94 flocks distributed throughout Victoria were examined by microbiological and histopathological techniques. Carcasses from 4 of the same flocks were similarly examined in 1971. Widespread occurrence of Listeria monocytogenes and Campylobacter fetus was demonstrated with L. monocytogenes being recognised in 25% of the flocks examined. No other bacterial pathogens commonly associated with ovine perinatal mortality were isolated, but adequate techniques for recognition of Toxoplasma gondii were not used. E. coli was isolated from a majority of the carcasses and in heavy pure culture from the liver of 26 cases. Evidence of non-specific bacterial infection was recognised histopathologically in carcasses from 30% of flocks in which specific infection was not recognised. Specific infections were demonstrated culturally or histologically in 16% of the 582 carcasses submitted to detailed laboratory examination. The reported findings suggest that further investigation into the incidence of specific congenital infections is required.