Epiphysitis in rams following vaccination against Brucella ovis infection

Abstract

Lameness following the combined use of Brucella abortus strain 19 and Br. ovis vaccine for the prevention of Br. ovis infection was recorded in 40 of 300, 10 to 11-months-old Perendale rams. Epiphysitis caused by Br. abortus strain 19 was confirmed in selected cases and radiological examination of affected limbs was found to be of value in clinical diagnosis. It is emphasised that the control of ovine brucellosis in stud flocks should first be based on the clinical examination of genitalia and the Br. ovis complement fixation test.