Use of a fluorescent antibody technique for the serological differentiation of leptospiral serotypes in cultures and in bovine urine

Abstract

Extract

Leptospirosis is a common and important cattle disease in some parts of New Zealand and increasing numbers of human infections are being reported, particularly in dairy farming areas (Anon., 1972). In a recent survey it was found that 24 of 65 cattle (37%) from properties where human leptospirosis was recorded were excreting leptospira-like organisms in their urine. These cattle did not have serum agglutinating antibodies to a variety of commonly employed serotypes, at titres that were considered to be of diagnostic importance (D. E. Lake, pers. comm.).