sheep abortion

What are the main signs of EAE in ewes?

Placenta thickening and brown exudate.

How are ewes infected with Toxoplasma?

Ingestion of oocysts shed in cat feces.

What is a key feature of lambs affected by Border Disease?

They may be born as 'hairy little shakers'.

What management action should be taken immediately after abortion cases are identified?

Isolate cases and mark ewes.

What is the recommended vaccination timing for EAE?

3 weeks before tupping.

What should be done to prevent Toxoplasma transmission in flocks?

Keep cats out of feed stores.

What does the presence of dark cotyledons and white necrosis in the placenta indicate?

Toxoplasma infection.

What are the clinical signs of Salmonella in ewes?

Diarrhea, anorexia, and sudden death.

How can Campylobacter be controlled in a flock?

Prevent feed and water contamination.

What should be examined during the investigation of abortion in ewes?

The placenta and aborted material.

What sample can be sent to the lab for Toxoplasma diagnosis?

Placenta and fetal fluid.

What are the possible outcomes for ewes infected with Chlamydia abortus during early gestation?

Abortion in the last 3 weeks of gestation.

What is one zoonotic risk associated with EAE and Toxoplasma?

Both can be transmitted to humans.

What is the typical gestation period for abortion caused by Campylobacter infection?

7-25 days.

What is the recommended action regarding flock introductions?

Purchase accredited disease-free stock and keep separate until after lambing.

What should be done if lambs are alive after an abortion?

Assess if they are normal or weak.

What is an indicator of systemic illness in ewes associated with abortion?

Diarrhea and anorexia.

What diagnostic tool can be used to check for BDV in fetal tissues?

Virus isolation or PCR.

What clinical signs might indicate a Salmonella outbreak in a flock?

Diarrhea, anorexia, and sudden death.

How can an outbreak of Border Disease be controlled in a flock?

Maintain a closed flock and test replacements before mixing.

What indicates a need for immediate biosecurity measures after abortion events?

The presence of systemic disease and zoonotic risks.

What is one key sign of Campylobacter infection in lambs?

Weakness.

Which laboratory tests are useful to diagnose Toxoplasma in ewes?

PCR and immunohistochemistry.

What effect does Chlamydia abortus have if a ewe is infected before pregnancy?

It can lead to abortion in the last 3 weeks of gestation.

What should be monitored regarding the nutritional status and management of pregnant ewes?

Recent changes and how they affect lamb viability.

What does the term 'placentitis' refer to in the context of abortion?

Inflammation of the placenta, often due to infection.

What is a possible consequence of poor management in ewes during gestation?

Increased abortion rates.

What type of organism is responsible for Toxoplasma infections?

Protozoa.

How do ewes with Border Disease present in terms of fetal outcomes?

Foetal death or abnormal (hairy little shakers) if infected early.

Why is it vital to collect multiple placenta cotyledons for diagnosis?

To improve the reliability of tests for infectious agents.

What is one consequence of Campylobacter infection in pregnant ewes?

Abortion usually occurs in the last 6 weeks of gestation.

What laboratory method can be used to identify EAE infection in placenta?

Modified Ziehl-Neelsen stain.

What is the incubation period for Toxoplasma leading to abortion in pregnant ewes?

Infection can lead to abortion or stillbirth during gestation.

What is a recommended vaccine strategy for controlling EAE?

Vaccinate ewes 3 weeks prior to breeding.

What indicates a healthy lamb after an abortion event in ewes?

Lambs being normal and vigorous.

What environmental factor can increase the risk of Salmonella infections?

Ingestion of contaminated feed or feces.

What should be considered prior to introducing new animals into a flock?

The vaccination status and overall health of the flock.