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Epidemiological observations in a Corriedale flock affected by Brucella ovis
C A Robles1, F A Uzal, F V Olaechea
1National Institute for Agricultural Technology (INTA), Bariloche, Argentina.
Veterinary Research Communications
|December 30, 1998
Summary
Brucellosis ovis in rams, a chronic sheep infection, showed increased seroprevalence despite culling. Strict management reduced reproductive lesions, suggesting sexual activity influences disease spread more than age.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Infectious Diseases
- Sheep Husbandry
Background:
- Brucellosis ovis is a chronic infectious disease in rams, characterized by epididymitis.
- Sheep brucellosis significantly impacts ram reproductive health and flock productivity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the prevalence and impact of Brucella ovis infection in a commercial sheep flock over three years.
- To evaluate the effectiveness of clinical and serological culling strategies in controlling ovine brucellosis.
Main Methods:
- Annual clinical and serological examinations of 600 rams over three years.
- Implementation of strict culling of clinically affected and serologically positive rams.
- Categorization of clinical lesions, focusing on epididymitis and lymph node infections.
Main Results:
- Seroprevalence of Brucella ovis increased from 2.1% to 6.3% over the study period.
- Prevalence of rams with reproductive tract lesions decreased from 14.2% to 6.5% after one year of culling.
- Disease prevalence appeared linked to sexual activity rather than ram age.
Conclusions:
- A single culling event was insufficient to eradicate Brucella ovis in this extensive flock.
- Ovine brucellosis control may require integrated strategies addressing sexual behavior and management practices.