We have stock…!!!! Call us today to reserve the vaccines for your flock. CALL: 01771 637219
Clostridial diseases in sheep are caused by bacteria from the Clostridium species, which are anaerobic, spore-forming organisms. These bacteria can thrive in the intestines, muscles, or other parts of the body under the right conditions, often leading to severe illness or death. The diseases are typically rapid in onset and can be fatal if not treated immediately.
Prevention Strategies
- Vaccination: Regular vaccination programs are the most effective way to protect sheep from clostridial diseases. Vaccines for specific clostridial species (e.g., C. chauvoei, C. tetani, C. perfringens, C. septicum, C. novyi) are available and often combined into multivalent vaccines for broad protection.
- Good Management Practices: Minimizing stress, managing feed carefully, and reducing exposure to conditions where clostridial bacteria can thrive (e.g., contaminated feed or injury-prone environments) are important.
- Rapid Response: Prompt veterinary attention is necessary if an outbreak is suspected. However, because of the rapid nature of clostridial infections, prevention through vaccination is critical.
By vaccinating sheep annually and ensuring proper feeding and care, many of these diseases can be prevented, helping to avoid significant losses in sheep populations. However, we are also aware how difficult it is to source a number of these vaccines. As it stands at Caledonia Farm Vets we have a stock of Heptavac- P available. This is the gold standard for sheep vaccination as it covers 7 Clostridial Diseases and also Pastruella. Vaccinating ewes with Heptavac P Plus 4-6 weeks pre-lambing is the best way to protect them and their lambs.
Up to 12 weeks passive immunity against clostridial disease is expected in lambs who have received sufficient colostrum from fully vaccinated ewes. The vaccine also provides 4 weeks passive immunity against pasturellosis in lambs.
Lambs can be vaccinated from 3 weeks of age with either Heptavac P Plus or Ovivac to provide ongoing protection against clostridial disease and pasturellosis. Lambs must receive a primary course of 2 doses, 4-6 weeks apart.
CALL: 01771 637219
