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Paratuberculosis in wild rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus)
A Greig1, K Stevenson, V Perez
1Moredun Research Institute, Edinburgh.
The Veterinary Record
|February 8, 1997
Summary
A study found that 67% of wild rabbits in Scotland were infected with Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis (MAP). These findings suggest wildlife may play a role in MAP epidemiology and disease control.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Microbiology
- Wildlife Epidemiology
- Pathology
Background:
- Paratuberculosis, caused by Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis (MAP), is a significant disease in ruminants.
- The role of wildlife, particularly lagomorphs, in MAP epidemiology remains under-investigated.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence of MAP infection in wild rabbits in Tayside, Scotland.
- To characterize the pathological changes associated with MAP infection in rabbits.
Main Methods:
- A survey of wild rabbits was conducted in Tayside, Scotland.
- Histopathological examination of lymph nodes and intestines from infected rabbits was performed.
Main Results:
- 67% of surveyed wild rabbits were infected with MAP.
- Infected rabbits exhibited histopathological changes in lymph nodes and intestines consistent with paratuberculosis.
Conclusions:
- Wild rabbits can be infected with MAP.
- Rabbits and other wildlife may contribute to the epidemiology of paratuberculosis.
- Findings have implications for the control strategies of paratuberculosis.