Abstract

Background: Neospora caninum is a protozoan parasite and a main cause of abortions in cattle worldwide. However, its role in abortions and decreased fertility in sheep is not completely understood, especially due to the complex, multifactorial etiology of abortions. This study aimed to perform a longitudinal field study to investigate the epidemiology of neosporosis and its effect on fertility in endemic sheep herds. Methods: Serological (IFAT) and clinical (outcome of pregnancy) data from 153 ewe-lambs was collected in four intensive management farms in Israel during three consecutive pregnancies. Results: The seroprevalence in ewe-lambs at different farms varied between 24% and 93%. The overall seroprevalence increased from 50% in ewe-lambs to 96.6% at the end of the third pregnancy. Horizontal infection was observed in all farms, with seroconversion in 59% of seronegative sheep. Abortion rates were lower (p = 0.004) in seropositive ewes in the first pregnancy and not significantly higher in seropositive sheep in consecutive pregnancies. Seropositivity or seroconversion were not associated with abortions or repeated abortions; however, many aborting ewes were removed from the flock. Conclusions: No direct short- or long-term association was found between Neopsora infection and abortions. The variations between flocks and pregnancies suggest a more complex etiology.

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.