Manage Brucellosis (CA) effectively

Contagious abortion (CA), or Brucellosis, caused by the bacteria Brucella abortus, induces mid- to late-term abortions in cows. Abortion rates can range from 30% to 80%, leading to significant economic losses. CA is endemic to South Africa, occurring in all provinces. Vaccination of heifers between four and eight months is mandatory, and provides protection against CA. Transmission of CA within a herd occurs through the ingestion or licking of membranes, aborted foetuses and infected milk. Animal to human transmission usually occurs via contact with infected cattle secretions, foetal membranes, carcasses and injuries incurred while inoculating animals with live vaccines.

State veterinarian at the department of agriculture, forestry and fisheries Dr Alicia Cloete emphasized the importance of managing Brucellosis in livestock herds in interviews on Afrikaans Radio. To listen to these interesting interviews, click HERE and HERE.