Causes of ovine abortion, vaccination protocols and uptake: an overview

Abstract

Ovine abortion is a worldwide problem for sheep farmers, and can have a variety of infectious and non-infectious causes. The most notable infectious causes are Chlamydia abortus and Toxoplasma gondii, but there are a range of pathogens known to farmers and vets. Diagnosis is achieved by post-mortem examination of aborted lambs and testing of samples including, but not limited to, the foetal membranes and placenta. There are several efficacious vaccines available in the UK targeting abortion-associated pathogens, mainly to be administered before mating. Vaccine uptake is variable, and more emphasis on farmers complying with protocols needed.