Bacillus pseudotuberculosis ovis, commonly known as Ovine pseudotuberculosis, is a bacterial pathogen that primarily infects sheep and occasionally other small ruminants such as goats. It belongs to the genus Bacillus and the species pseudotuberculosis.
The bacteria can cause a chronic and debilitating disease in animals known as pseudotuberculosis or caseous lymphadenitis. Pseudotuberculosis is characterized by the formation of abscesses in various organs and tissues, most commonly in the lymph nodes, liver, lungs, and skin. The disease can lead to weight loss, reduced productivity, and even death in severe cases.
Bacillus pseudotuberculosis ovis is primarily transmitted through direct contact between infected and susceptible animals, often through wounds or ingestion of contaminated feed or water. The bacterium can survive for long periods in the environment, contributing to its persistence and spread within animal populations.
Diagnosis of pseudotuberculosis is typically done through clinical signs, bacterial isolation, and identification from infected tissues, and various laboratory tests such as serology. Treatment options for infected animals are limited, and management practices mainly focus on prevention and control strategies, including vaccination, isolation, and culling of affected animals.
In conclusion, Bacillus pseudotuberculosis ovis is a bacterial pathogen that causes pseudotuberculosis in sheep and other small ruminants, leading to chronic disease and potential economic losses in affected flocks.
