The extreme weather conditions have resulted in increased numbers of sheep dying as a result of Pasteurella pneumonia and other killer diseases such as braxy, according to a leading veterinary adviser.
Mairead O’Grady, veterinary adviser with Intervet Schering-Plough, has warned that unvaccinated sheep are at great risk of contracting Pasteurella pneumonia and Pasteurella septicaemia during the current severe spell. The risk is further compounded where sheep are being housed or stressed during activities such as dosing and foot-bathing.
“Vaccination with Heptavac-P is the only way to prevent the nightmare of deaths from pneumonia and braxy. Sheep aged six to 10 months are especially at risk. They should be given a primary injection followed by a booster four to six weeks later in order to ensure full immunity. Thereafter, an annual vaccination with Heptavac-P will maintain protection against these deadly diseases,” she said.
