Authors : Abdinasir Yusuf Osman, Faez Firdaus Jesse Bin Abdullah and Abdul Aziz b Saharee
Abstract: Seroepidemiological survey of Caseous Lymphadenitis (CLA), a bacterial infection in sheep and goats was conducted in East Coast Economic Regions (ECER) in peninsular Malaysia. A total of 422 animals (n = 422) from 15 small ruminant farms (sheep and goats) in the four states were screened during the period from January to April 2011. The management practices that could be associated with CLA occurrence was also analyzed. The objective of this survey was to determine the overall status of CLA infections in small ruminants. AGPT was conducted on serum samples collected from animals. About 47 samples out of 422 yielded a positive reaction for AGPT test. The frequency of CLA infections was estimated at 11.1%. Management practices were analyzed through questionnaire. All farmers (15/15) had semi-extensive rearing system; 27.6% (13/47) of farmers had periodical veterinary services; 10.6% (5/47) took note of animals with clinical signs of CLA; 14.8% (7/47) were aware of the zoonotic potential of this disease. Lack of sanitary measures and epidemiological studies led the dissemination of this disease in Malaysia. Moreover, the economic importance of this disease seems to be overlooked by both individual and state level allowing existence of endemic nature of the disease in this country. Therefore, further epidemiological studies using reliable diagnostic tools and application of appropriate management practices need to be implemented for aiding control and eradication programs for this disease.
Abdinasir Yusuf Osman, Faez Firdaus Jesse Bin Abdullah and Abdul Aziz b Saharee, 2012. Sero-Prevalence of Caseous Lymphadenitis Evaluated by Agar Gel Precipitation Test among Small Ruminant Flocks in East Coast Economic Regions in Peninsular Malaysia. Journal of Animal and Veterinary Advances, 11: 3474-3480.