Brucella ovis

Brucella ovis

Brucella ovis is a species of bacteria within the genus Brucella. It is a Gram-negative coccobacillus that is non-motile and facultatively intracellular. Brucella ovis is primarily known for causing epididymitis in rams, which can lead to infertility and significant economic losses in the sheep industry.

Characteristics

Brucella ovis is a member of the Brucellaceae family. It is an aerobic organism that does not produce spores. The bacterium is characterized by its ability to survive and replicate within host cells, particularly macrophages. Unlike other Brucella species, B. ovis is not zoonotic and is primarily associated with sheep.

Pathogenesis

Brucella ovis primarily affects the reproductive organs of rams, leading to epididymitis, which is the inflammation of the epididymis. This condition can result in reduced fertility or sterility in affected animals. The bacterium can also cause placentitis in ewes, leading to abortion or weak lambs.

The infection is transmitted between animals through direct contact, particularly during mating. Rams can also become infected through contaminated equipment or environments.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of Brucella ovis infection is typically achieved through serological tests, such as the complement fixation test or the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Culture of the organism from semen or tissue samples can also be performed, although it is more challenging due to the fastidious nature of the bacterium.

Prevention and Control

Control of Brucella ovis infection in sheep flocks involves regular testing and culling of infected animals. Good management practices, such as maintaining a closed flock and ensuring proper hygiene, can help prevent the spread of the disease. Vaccination is not commonly used for B. ovis as it is for other Brucella species.

Economic Impact

The presence of Brucella ovis in a sheep flock can lead to significant economic losses due to reduced fertility rates, increased culling, and decreased lamb production. Effective management and control measures are essential to minimize these impacts.

Also see

• Brucella abortus
• Brucella melitensis
• Brucellosis
• Epididymitis
• Zoonosis