Previous disease reports can be seen on the RuVASA website www.ruvasa.co.za

Click on Disease Reports

The following practices and laboratories (118) submitted reports during October 2017:

Mpumalanga (11)Balfour – Dr. Louis van JaarsveldBethal – Dr. Hardus PietersGrootvlei – Dr. Neels van WykKarino – Dr. Silke PfitzerLydenburg – Drs. Trümpelmann and SteynMalalane – Drs. Van Sittert and Van SittertMiddelburg –Drs. Malan, Erasmus and BernitzNelspruit – Dr. André BeytellPiet Retief – Drs. Niebuhr and WeberStanderton – Dr. Kobie KroonVolksrust – Drs. Watson, Solomon, Scheepers and Blaauw

Gauteng (6) Bapsfontein – Drs. Engelbrecht and OlivierBronkhorstspruit – Drs. De Bruin, De Bruin, Rudolph and SlabberMagaliesburg – Dr. Ryan JefferyOnderstepoort Veterinary Academic Hospital - Proff. Annandale, Prozesky, Shakespear, Holm, Pettey and Drs. Arnot, Fitte, Grobler, Hamman, Koeppel, Leask, Maboe, Marufu, Mokoele, O’Dell, Tshuma and Van der LeekPretoria – Dr. Hanneke PienaarVanderbijlpark – Dr. Kobus Kok

Limpopo (8)Alldays – Dr. Nico du PreezBela-Bela (Warmbath) – Dr. Nele SabbeLephalale (Ellisras) – Dr. Brigitte LuckModimolle (Nylstroom) – Drs. Huber, Bredell and BarnardMokopane- Dr. Henk VisserPolokwane (Pietersburg) – Drs. Watson, Viljoen, Jansen van Vuuren, Van Rooyen, Snyman and Cremona

Monthly report on livestock disease trends as informally reported by veterinarians belonging to the Ruminant Veterinary Association of South Africa (RuVASA), a group of the South African Veterinary Association

October 2017

Vaalwater – Dr. Hampie van StadenVaalwater – Dr. Annemieke Müller

North West (8)Brits – Drs. Boshoff and CoertzeChristiana - Dr. Pieter NelKlerksdorp – Drs. Coetzee and VenterLeeudoringstad – Dr. Ian JonkerSchweizer-Reneke – Dr. Cizelle NaudéStella - Dr. Magdaleen Vosser Ventersdorp/ Koster –Dr. Nico BenadéVryburg – Drs. De Jager and Rautenbach

Free State (23)Bloemfontein – Dr. Stephan WesselsBultfontein – Dr. Santjie PieterseClocolan – Drs. Wasserman and BassonDewetsdorp – Dr. Marike BadenhorstFicksburg – Drs. Kotzé and CoetzerFrankfort - Drs. Lessing, Cilliers and Janse van Rensburg Gariep Dam – Dr. Marni StraussHertzogville - Dr. Nico Hendrikz Hoopstad – Dr. Kobus PretoriusKroonstad – Drs. Daffue, Eksteen, Van Zyl and Van der WaltLadybrand/Excelsior - Dr. De Vos and NelMemel – Drs. Nixon and NixonParys – Drs. Wessels and WesselsPhilippolis – Dr. Stephan van NiekerkReitz - Dr. Murray SmithReitz – Dr. Schabort FronemanSenekal – Dr. Jan BlignautSmithfield – Dr. Nienke van Hasselt Trompsburg – Dr. Wyn IrwinViljoenskroon - Dr. Johan Kahts Wesselsbron – Dr. Johan JacobsWinburg – Drs. Albertyn and AlbertynZastron – Drs. Troskie and Strauss

KwaZulu-Natal (15)Bergville - Dr. Ariena Shepherd Bergville – Dr. Jubie MullerCamperdown – Dr. Anthony van TonderDundee – Drs. Marais and FynnDundee – Dr. Paul ReynoldsEshowe – Drs. Pryke and Hoffman

Estcourt – Drs.Turner, Tedder, Taylor, Tratschler, Van Rooyen and AlwarHowick – Drs. Hughes, Lund, Gordon, Allison and TaylorKokstad - Drs. Clowes and ShrivesMtubatuba – Dr. Trever ViljoenNewcastle – Dr. Barry RaffertyPietermaritzburg – Dr. Phillip KretzmannPongola – Dr. Heinz KohrsUnderberg - Drs. Collins, King and Delaney Vryheid – Drs.Theron and Theron

Eastern Cape (12)Alexandria - Dr. Johan Olivier Aliwal North – Drs. Troskie and StraussBathurst – Dr. Jane PistoriusCradock – Dr. Frans ErasmusGraaff- Reinet - Dr. Roland Larson Graaff-Reinet – Drs. Hobson,Strydom and HennesyHumansdorp – Drs. Van Niekerk and Janse Van Vuuren Middelburg/Steynsburg/Barkly East – Drs Van Rooyen and ViljoenPort Alfred – Dr. Leon de BruynStutterheim - Dr. Dave WatermanUitenhage – Drs. Mulder and KrügerWitelsbos – Dr. Elmien Kotze Western Cape (20)Beaufort West - Drs. Pienaar and Grobler Caledon – Drs. Retief, Coetzer and Jansen Caledon – Drs. Louw and ViljoenDarling – Drs. Van der Merwe, Adam and SenekalGeorge - Drs. Strydom, Truter and Pettifer George – Dr. Mark ChimesHeidelberg – Dr. Albert van ZylMalmesbury – Drs. Bosman and GroenewaldMalmesbury – Dr. Otto KriekMalmesbury – Dr. Markus FourieMalmesbury – Dr. Andrie LechOudtshoorn – Dr. Glen CarlisleOudtshoorn – Dr. Adriaan OlivierPiketberg – Dr. André van der MerwePlettenberg Bay – Dr. André Reitz Riversdale – Drs. Du Plessis, Taylor and De BruynStellenbosch – Dr. Alfred KiddSwellendam – Dr. Jacques Malan Vredenburg – Dr. Izak RustWellington – Drs. Van Zyl and Louw

Northern Cape (9)Calvinia – Dr. Bertus NelColesberg – Drs. Rous and RousDe Aar – Dr. Donald AndersonKathu – Dr. Jan VorsterKuruman – Dr. Lea ShudaKuruman – Dr. Gerhard v.d. WesthuizenPostmasburg – Dr. Boeta van der MerweUpington – Drs. Vorster and VisserUpington – Dr. A B Fourie

Feedlots (1)Drs. Morris and Du Preez

Laboratory reports (5)Dr. Marijke Henton - Vetdiagnostix, JohannesburgDr. Alan Fisher – Queenstown Provincial laboratoryDr. Last, Bosch and Williams – Vetdiagnostix, PietermaritzburgDr. Liza du Plessis – Idexx, OnderstepoortDr. Lucy Lange – Pathcare, Cape Town

Key Message

The rainy season is ahead of us and insect transmitted diseases such as lumpy skin disease, blue tongue, three day stiff sickness, Rift Valley Fever, Wesselsbron disease and African Horse Sickness might occur if animals had not been vaccinated in time. Discuss control measures wirth your veterinarian.

Tick transmitted diseases such as African and Asiatic red water, heart water and anaplasmosis will also cause huge losses if the correct management programmes are not followed.

Moisture and heat are ideal conditions for internal parasite outbreaks. Discuss with your veterinarian which products to use as well as the 5 point check to diagnose internal parasite problems in small stock.

Toxic plants cause huge losses in animals and Dr. Neil Fourie enlightens farmers on the 8 most common poisonings farmers may encounter in production animals.

Information is attached regarding the antibiotic awareness week. As antibiotic resistance affects both human and animals please spread this message far and wide!

THE ‘SMALL” EIGHT

In a previous communication on Rural Vet (communication with production animal veterinarians) we suggested that Cestrum (ink berry) poisoning should be added to our current understanding that only seven plant toxicity syndromes, account for ±70 % of stock losses in Southern Africa.

According to “Kellerman” et. al. “ there are “600 – odd toxic plant species in South Africa alone”. The “Big Eight “ are: cardiac glycosides (heart toxins), gifblaar, lantana, geeldikkop, vermeersiekte, Senecio, and Cestrum (ink berry)poisoning.

Every region in Southern Africa has problems specific to that area and some of these syndromes are not listed as the big eight. Most recently a farmer in the Ladysmith area, lost 30 cattle to Cotula nigellifolia (=Matricaria nigellifolia) (stagger weed, stootsiekte bossie). This plant causes a nervous syndrome commonly known as “stootsiekte”.

On a recent visit to Namibia, farmers told me that blindness in small stock caused by Helichrysum argyrosphaerum (wild everlasting, sewejaartjie)) is a big problem during drought periods. A practice in the Western Cape reported that sprouting Eucalyptus cladocalyx trees (sugar gum, bloekom) after they have been cut down, often causes prussic acid (blousuur)poisoning.

Then there are poisonings caused by Dipcadi glaucum (slangkop), kweek, cyanobacteria (blou-groen alge), Pteridium aquilinum (adelaarsvaring)and many other lesser syndromes.

The information overload that students have to deal with is often analysed and we are tempted to leave out the “minor” syndromes. These three examples just go to show that we as veterinarians need to know the full spectrum of disease. Maybe 30 years after you have qualified, you need to pull a file deep down in the grey matter-but it is there!

Written by Dr Neil Fourie, Specialist toxicologist (neil@nfourie.co.za)

To see what these plants look like go to Google images and type the name of the plants in the search block.

Websites that are there to help you with information regarding animal health:

National Animal Health Forum

www.nahf.co.za

Read what the Forum is all about:http://nahf.co.za/about/ This website will become the information centre of animal health in Southern Africa.On the toolbar click on Stakeholders and you will find links to producer organizations and other organizations who are participating in the NAHF http://nahf.co.za/stakeholders/

Provincial Animal Health Forums have their own site – click on Provinces http://nahf.co.za/provinces/

Important is to study the Veterinary Strategy (2016 -2026) as it gives direction to where we are going with Animal Health in South Africa. http://nahf.co.za/wp-content/uploads/Vet-strategy-final-signed.pdf

Click on Info centre for more information on the “war” we have against Bovine Brucellosis. Please be up to date on the role all have to play to control this zoonotic disease.http://nahf.co.za/category/diseases/brucellosis/

Information on other controlled diseases (Ovine Johne’s Disease, Pest of small stock – PPR, and African Horse Sickness) is available. This link will continuously be updated.

Information on antibiotic resistance is also available at this address: http://nahf.co.za/category/antibiotic-resistance/

Rural Veterinary Association of South Africawww.ruvasa.co.zaClick on Disease reporting where maps and information can be sourced on the prevelance of diseases in all provinces. Abattoir reports are available. Use the information available to update management programmes

Landbouweekblad’s webpagewww.landbou.comVra vir FaffaClick on: Indeks van antwoorde where more than 4 000 answers can be sourced on animal health.Click on BeesteClick on SiektesClick on Brusellose

1 Stop Brusellose

2. Gevaar om Beesbrusellose (BBR) deur vendusies en skoue te versprei

3. Rapportering aan bure of ander eienaars oor die voorkoms van brusellose

4. Inligting oor brusellose op die NAHF se webblad

5. Kuddebestuur voor die dekseisoen

6. Bees Brusellose handleiding

7. Teenliggaamwaardes om beesbrusellose in koeie te bepaal

8. Veterinêre Strategie 2016 -2026

9. ‘n Dosyn dinge wat jy moet weet van beesbrusellose

10. Vyf kernfeite wat jy van beesbrusellose (Besmetlike misgeboorte – BM) behoort te weet

11. Veiligheid van vleis en biltong afkomstig van ‘n bees met brusellose

12. Vervoer van diere uit ‘n positiewe brusellose kudde

13. Beheer van brusellose in ‘n beeskudde

14. Boerderypraktyke wat die gevaar van die voorkoms van brusellose verhoog

15. Pak brusellose by die horings

16. Brucellose kan jou lewe verwoes

17. Brusellose in wild

18. Bestuur van positiewe besmetlike misgeboorte beeste

19. Aankoop van beeste wat besmetlike misgeboorte het

20. Antwoorde oor brusellose

21. Behandeling van besmetlike misgeboorte

22. Besmetlike misgeboorte uitbreek in ‘n kudde

23. Gevaar van brusellose onderskat

24. RB51-inenting teen brusellose in dragtige koeie

25. Alles oor Besmetlike Misgeboorte (BM)

26. Kompensasie vir BM en TB positiewe beeste?

27. Nóg vrae oor besmetlike misgeboorte

28. Koeie positief getoets vir besmetlike misgeboorte

29. Vrae, antwoorde oor besmetlike misgeboorte

30. Brucellose: Wat staan ons te doen?

Internal parasite controlwww.wormx.info

Summary of disease report for October 2017

118 Reports from veterinary practices and laboratories were received (Mpumalanga (MP) 11; Gauteng (G) 6; Limpopo (L) 8; Northwest (NW) 8; Free State (FS) 23; KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) 15; Eastern Cape (EC 12); Western Cape (WC) 20: Northern Cape (NC) 9; Feedlots (FL) 1 and Laboratories (Lab) 5).

For the detailed report and previous reports go to www.ruvasa.co.za and click on Disease reporting

Internal parasites

The following reports were received from practices regarding internal parasite infestations:

Internal parasites MP G L NW FS KZN

EC WC NC

Roundworms x x x x x x x x xResistant roundworms x x x xWireworm x x x x x xBrown stomach-worm x xLong-necked bankruptwormLarge-mouthed bowelwormNodularwormLungwormEyewormParafilaria x x xTapeworms x x x x x xLiver fluke x x x x x xConical fluke x x x xCysticercosis (measles) x x x x xSchistosomiasis (bilharzia)Coccidiosis x x x x x xCryptosporidiosis x x x x x

As soon as there is an increase in rainfall, parasite problems will increase. Use the five point check to keep on top of what is happening in the flock. For further detail contact your local veterinarian.

https://docs.wixstatic.com/ugd/aded98_cb447e77eef6450f93a2b23cb0e6b9de.pdf

External parasites

The following reports were received from practices regarding external parasite infestations:

External parasites MP G L NW FS KZN

EC WC NC

Blue ticks x x x x x x xResistant blue ticks x x x

Heartwater ticks x x x x xBrown ear-ticks x x xBont-legged ticks x x x x x x x xRed-legged ticks x x x xParalysis ticks x x x xTampansBiting lice x x x xSucking lice x x x x xItch mitesSheep scab x xMange mites x xNuisance flies x x x x xMidges x x xMosquitoes xBlowflies x x x x xScrew-worm x x xGedoelstia (uitpeuloogsiekte)Nasal bot x x x x x x

Make sure to assess the blue tick resistance status on your farm before buying tickicides. Your veterinarian will be able to collect engorged blue ticks to be tested for resistance.

Actives to be tested for resistance are: organophosphates, pyrethroids, amidines. Active registered for controlling blue ticks are: macrocyclic lactones and fluazuron (acaracide growth regulator). A new active was recently registered for use in cattle: fipronil

Tick numbers will increase after rains. Below is a list of diseases diseases transmitted by ticks.

Tick borne diseases

The following tick borne diseases were reported by practices in the provinces:

Tick borne diseases MP G L NW FS KZN

EC WC NC

African red water x x x x xAsiatic red water x x x x x xAnaplasmosis x x x x x x xHeartwater x x x x x xLumpy skin disease x x x xCorridor diseaseTheileriosis

Asiatic red water is spreading and is one of the deadliest diseases in cattle.

The new heartwater vaccine is still a year or two away as registration trials have to be done when the upscaling of vaccine production is accomplished.

The following tick toxicosis was reported by practices in the provinces:

Tick toxicosis MP G L NW FS KZN

EC WC NC

Sweating sickness x x x x

Insect transmittable diseases

The following insect transmittable diseases were reported by practices in the provinces:

Insect transmittable diseases MP G L NW FS KZN

EC WC NC

Lumpy skin disease x x x xEphemeral fever (Three day stiff sickness) xBlue tongue x x xRift Valley FeverWesselsbronNagana

Now is the time to vaccinate animals against these diseases. Rains have fallen in many parts of the summer rainfall area which predicts lots of insect vectors.

Venerial diseases

The following venereal diseases were reported by practices in the provinces:

Venereal diseases MP G L NW FS KZN

EC WC NC

Trichomonosis x x x x x xVibriosis x x x x xPizzle disease xActinobacillus seminis

New cases of trichomonosis are reported every month and this disease is out of control. Make sure to buy bulls from farmers where biosecurity measures are in place and bulls are tested for these diseases at regular intervals.

Make sure that fences are in tact and gates closed so that bulls cannot escape to neighbouring cows that may be infected with Tritrichomonas and become infected or infected neighbouring bulls are jumping fences.

Cattle study groups should discuss preventative and control measures with their veterinarians. Be sure to test bulls regularly for these diseases.

Beware when buying in or sharing bulls! Remember female animals may also be infected.

Study the Good management SOP’s for cattle farmers on the RPO website

http://www.rpo.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/nuutRPO-NERPO-Code-Addendum.pdf

http://www.rpo.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/nuutRPO-NERPO-Code-Addendum-4-Good-management-practices-and-SOPs-for-cattle-farmers-1.pdf

Bacterial diseases

The following bacterial diseases were reported by practices in the provinces:

Bacterial diseases MP G L NW FS KZN

EC WC NC

AnthraxBlackquarter x x x x xBotulism x x xPulpy kidney x x x x x xLamb dysenterySwelled head x x x xRed gut (cattle) x x x x x xBlood gut (sheep) x x x x xTetanus x xSalmonellosis x x x xBovine brucellosis x x x x xOvine brucellosis (Ram’s disease) x x xBovine tuberculosisJohne’s x xLeptospirosis xListeriosisPseudomonasFusibacterium necrophorum xSepticaemia xE. coli x x x x x x xEnzootic abortion x x xLumpy wool xUterine gangrene xBovine dermatophilosis (Senkobo disease)Wooden tongueLumpy jaw x

Study the table above and determine the risk for animals on your farm. Get advice from your veterinarian on Cryptosporidium/E. coli outbreaks in your area and what to do to prevent losses in lambs and calves.

When buying animals this Vendor declaration can help you to minimize risk!

VENDOR DECLARATION BOVINE BRUCELLOSIS

I hereby declare that I am the legal owner or authorised representative of the cattle on sale and am competent to make this declaration

1 The cattle for sale are clearly and permanently identified Yes No

2 The cattle for sale/slaughter were born on my farm Yes No

3 The farm has a closed herd policy i.e. I do not buy in cattle, rent out grazing or speculate with cattle

Yes No

4 I practice bio-security on my farm to a level that is ** Poor Moderate Good

5 I vaccinate my heifer calves against Bovine Brucellosis once between the ages of 4 – 8 months

Yes No

6 In addition I vaccinate my cattle older than 8 months with RB51

Yes No

7 I have all the cattle on my farm tested for Bovine Brucellosis Yes (date) No

8 My herd has been tested negative within the past year Yes No

9 I did not buy in cattle since my last negative brucellosis test Yes No

10 I/my vet investigates any abortions on my farm Yes No

11 To the best of my knowledge, my immediate neighbours and farms in my area are free of Bovine Brucellosis

Yes No

12 I use a veterinarian to advise me on my cattle’s herd health Yes No13 The cattle handling facilities on my farm are Poor Average Good

Note: Vaccination does not mean freedom from Bovine Brucellosis as cattle can still be carriersPlease attach the most recent Brucella blood test certificate

Owner or authorised representative:…………………………………………………..

Signature:…………………………………………………..

Date:……………………………………….

** * Biosecurity Poor – speculates with cattle, does not vaccinate, poor fences, cattle come into contact with other cattle

Medium – Vaccinates heifers, does not buy in cattle of unknown health status

Good – closed herd/never buys in cattle, vaccinates heifers and no contact with other cattle, follows a herd health plan as advised by his veterinarian, does not allow transport trucks onto property, washes and disinfects truck after returning from the abattoir or auction grounds.

Compiled by: Dr. Sewellyn Davey, Chairman of the Brucellosis Steering committee of the National Animal Health Forum

Vendor’s declaration for Ovine Johne’s Disease

Viral diseases

The following viral diseases were reported by practices in the provinces:

Viral diseases MP G L NW FS KZN

EC WC NC

BMC (snotsiekte) x x xRabies (cattle) x xBVD xIBR xBRSV xPI3Maedi visna virusRotavirus / Coronavirus x x xEnzootic bovine leucosis (EBL) x x x xSheep leucosisJaagsiekte xOrf x x x x x x x xWarts x x x x x

There is no treatment for viral diseases with the result that animals have to be protected by vaccinations if they are available.

The snotsiekte vaccine is still in the experimental stage and will hopefully be registered in two years tme.

Discuss vaccination programmes and biosecurity measures with your veterinarian.

Fungal diseases

The following fungal disease was reported by practices in the provinces:

Fungal diseases MP G L NW FS KZN

EC WC NC

Ringworm x x x x x x

Protozoal diseases

Protozoal diseases MP G L NW FS KZN

EC WC NC

Besnoitiosis (olifantsvelsiekte)

Toxicities

The following toxicities were reported by practices in the provinces:

Toxicities MP G L NW FS KZN

EC WC NC

Cardiac glycoside x x x xSlangkopCrotulariaGifblaar x x x

GousiekteCestrum (ink berry) x x xTulip x x x x x x xCynanchum (bobbejaantou) x xFacial eczema xLantana x x xPrussic acid x x x x xSenecio xCotula nigellifolia (stagger wood)Geeldikkop (duwweltjies) x xVermeersiekteHertia pallens (Nenta, krimpsiekte) x xChrysocoma ciliata (bitterbos)Solanum incanum (maldronksiekte)Gomphocarpus (Asclepias) fruticosus (milkweed)Bracken fernJanuary bush (Gnidia polycephalatus)ChinkerencheeEucalyptus (bloekom) barkKikuyuRyegrassGanskweekPaspalum staggersPhalaris aquaticum (Phalaris staggers)Photosensitivity (Turknael, Erodium moschatum)Photosensitivity (Stellenbosch)LusernMycotoxicosis xDiplodiosisLupinsHarpuisbosSyringa berriesKraalbos, Geelbos (Galenia africanaCrotolariaRadishCarrot poisoningOnion poisoningBracken fernPollen beetle ( Astylus atromaculatus)Water contaminationNitrateUrea x x x xSnake bite xMoth cocoons (impaction)Blue green algaeCopper xSeleniumZinc

FluorideLeadParaquatPhosamineAldicarbOrganophosphateZinc phosphidePyrethroid xAmitrazLevamisoleIvermectinTilmicosinBromoxynil nitrateIonophor xHypo

Beware when buying in animals or moving into rested grazing camps as they are the animals which usually eat toxic plants such as tulp and ink berries (Cestrum).

During spring toxic plants are sometimes eaten by young animals that do not know these plants. Be aware of this situation and know where these plants are growing on the farm.

For further information on treatment of tulp and other poisonings visit:

www.landbou.com

Vra vir Faffa

Klik op Indeks van antwoorde

Klik op Beeste of Skape

Klik op Vergiftigings

Klik op die Opskrifte

Every month there are reports of urea poisoning. Be aware when feeding this product that the correct concentration is used and that the lick does not get wet!

Nutritional deficiencies

The following nutritional deficiencies were reported by practices in the provinces:

Deficiencies MP G L NW FS KZN

EC WC NC

Energy x x x x x x xProtein x x x x x x x xPhosphate xCalcium x x x x

Micro-nutritional deficiencies

The following micro-nutritional deficiencies were reported by practices in the provinces:

Deficiencies MP G L NW FS KZN

EC WC NC

IodineCopper xZinc xSelenium x x x x x xMagnesium x xManganese xVitamin A x x x x x xVitamin B 1 x

There are antagonists such as calcium, iron and sulphur which hamper the uptake of micro-minerals. Have water and soil samples analysed to see what the levels of these antagonists are. Arrange with your veterinarian to have liver samples analysed to determine the status of these micro-minerals in your herd or flock.

Beware of fluoride poisoning as borehole water levels drop..

Supplement animals with vitamin A during drought conditions.

Multifactorial diseases and other conditions

The following conditions were reported by practices in the provinces

Multifactorial diseases and other conditions MP G L NW FS KZN

EC WC NC

Abortions x x x x x x

Stillbirths x x xAbscesses x x x x x x x xIntestinal ulcersBladder stones –urolithiasis x x xBlindness x x x x xBloat x x x x x x xBlue udder x x x x xDiarrhoea x x x x x x x x xEpididymitis xEye cancer x x xEye infections x x x x x x x xJoint ill x x x xLameness/foot problems x x x x x x x xLung infection x x x x x x x x xMastitis x x x x x x xNavel ill x x x x xRed gut (sheep, torsion of gut) xRectal prolaps

Trauma x x xTeeth wearPlastic bags (ingestion)Downer x x x x x x x

Discuss the origin, treatment and prevention of these diseases with your veterinarian

Metabolic diseases

The following diseases were reported by practices in the provinces:

Metabolic diseases MP G L NW FS KZN

EC WC NC

Acidosis x x x x x xDisplaced abomasums x x x

Ketosis (Domsiekte) x x x xMilk fever x x x x

Make sure that you adapt animals to feed containing concentrates.

Discuss the etiology, treatment and prevention of these diseases with your veterinarian.

Reproductive diseases

Reproductive diseases MP G L NW FS KZN

EC WC NC

Dystocia (difficult births) x x x x x x x x xEndometritis x x xHydropsMetritis x x x x x x x

Poor conception x x x x xRetained afterbirth x x x x x x x xSheath prolaps x x xUterine prolaps x x x x x x x x xVaginal prolaps x x x x x xPenis injuryOrchitis

Environmental conditions

MP G L NW FS KZN

EC WC NC

Exposure to cold x x x xFrozen to death x x xHeat stress xLightning x x x x x xDrought x x x x x

Other conditions

MP G L NW FS KZN

EC WC NC

Drug residues (milk, meat, liver, kidney etc)Preditors x x xTheft x xTraumatic pericarditis (wire in fore stomachs)

x

Trauma (fractures etc) x x x x xTrauma (veldfires) x

In the CODE OF CONDUCT of the RPO the following standard operating procedures are documented. The local veterinarian should be your partner to help you achieve the necessary standards. http://www.rpo.co.za/BestPractices/English.aspx

PRECAUTIONARY MEASURES TO SUPPORT BIO-SECURITY.

Precautionary measures are required to protect the herd against diseases acquired because of external contact. The following categories are of concern:

1. DIRECT LIVESTOCK PURCHASES (and own animals returning):The following should be verified before importing new animals into the herd:How long animals have resided at the purchase or previous location?Have there been any recent disease outbreaks in the location?Do brand marks clearly confirm ownership?Was a vaccination program followed (need paper or veterinarian proof). What are the local prevalent external parasites and the routinely implemented control program?Is a veterinarian supported control program against transmittable diseases followed?Dates and sufficient number of tests for reproductive diseases of both male and femaleDates and tests for zoonotic diseasesThe above should also be verified with the purchaser’s own veterinarian.

2. PURCHASES FROM SALES OR SPECULATORSPurchase only in areas which are not in close proximity to scheduled areasVisually inspect the animals before purchasing for:* brand marks* parasite infestation

3. TRANSPORT TO THE FARMUse only reputable transportersHas the truck been cleaned and disinfected? Truck to follow the shortest uninterrupted routeTruck to take the shortest route to the handling facilitiesDo not allow the truck personnel to get in contact with the farm herd

4. ARRIVAL ON THE FARMOff-load the livestock to limit stress and to be visually evaluated for any unnatural

conditions.Isolate them from the farm herd and shared facilities for at least 21 days (quarantine)Retest for diseases of concern if needed, before mixing with the rest of the herdProcess new arrivals within 24 hrs after arrival (unique ID tag brand, dip, dose, vaccinate)Inspect regularly

5. FEED PURCHASESEnsure bales of hay are sourced from areas that are not bordering scheduled areasPurchase feed from reputable dealers onlyAvoid buying feed in second hand bagsEnsure feed trucks are also disinfected and cleaned, especially if also used to transport animals to abattoirs

6. VISITORSDo not allow strangers or their vehicles amongst the livestockEnsure fences are well maintained and preferably jackal and warthog proof

7. EMPLOYEESDo not allow the employees to eat in feed storesSupply employees with sufficient ablution facilitiesRegularly arrange to let employees be medicated for tape worm and have health check-upsKeep record of all employee livestock on the propertyTreat employee livestock with separate but dedicated health programsEnsure employees understand the reason behind the implemented bio-security measures to help ensure compliance.

GENERAL AND REPRODUCTION MANAGEMENT

Record keeping: All animals are individually identified and recorded.To prove ownership: All animals are marked with the registered brand mark according to the Animal Identification Act, No 6 of 2002.A defined breeding season is the basis of effective management: The breeding season coincides with the rainy season, i.e. the period when nutritive value of the pasture is at its best.Sufficient energy reserves in the herd as measured by condition scoring are vital, especially for effective breeding, and when inadequate the herd is supplemented in consultation with a nutritionist: Condition scoring of bulls and cows are regularly done, particularly at the onset of the breeding season and supplemented if necessary.Bull - cow ratios are maintained: A ratio of 1 to 25 is maintained in every separate herd.Fertility of breeding bulls: All breeding bulls are tested for mating ability and semen quality before the breeding season. Sexually transferable diseases: Sheath washes or scrapes on bulls are performed annually.Diseases that can cause poor conception, abortion or weak calves: Cows are vaccinated against such diseases in consultation with the veterinarian.Breeding success monitored by a veterinarian: Rectal pregnancy or scan diagnosis is done by the veterinarian 8 weeks after the breeding season.Twenty percent of cows or more not pregnant: Further tests are done to determine cause of low pregnancy rate.Culling of non-pregnant cows: Non-pregnant cows are removed from the herd and considered a necessary bonus to supporting herd income.

HERD HEALTH AND BIO-SECURITY

Maintenance of herd health is key to a successful enterprise: A veterinarian should visit the farm bi-annually at least.Calf mortality before 3 months of age is an important reason for poor weaning percentage: Good management practices are applied to limit early calf deaths.Some diseases and parasites (internal and external) are more often encountered in specific areas: Annual vaccinations and a parasite control program should be applied according to regional requirements and in liaison with the veterinarian.Farmers selling weaned calves to feedlots may want to have a market advantage compared to others: A specific vaccination program is applied before weaning for that purpose.Herds may be at risk of being exposed to CA and TB: The herd is tested annually for CA and all heifers are vaccinated against CA between 4 and 8 months of age with an efficient, approved remedy. The herd is tested at least every 5 years for TB Precautionary measures are required to prevent diseases being imported into the herd: A quarantine program to keep incoming animals separate is followed. All incoming animals have a suitable certificate of negative test results or are of a certified clean, closed herd.Stock remedies and medicines should be registered, correctly stored and used before the transpire date: All medicines and stock remedies are registered, stored and applied according to prescription.Prescribed medicines with a specific application are under the control of the veterinary profession: All prescription medicines are obtained and applied under prescription from a veterinarian.

Practices that had nothing to reportCape Town – Dr. Lucy LangeLephalale – Dr. Brigitte LuckGeorge – Dr. Mark ChimesKareedouw – Dr. Martin BootsmaPlettenberg Bay – Dr. André ReitzVaalwater – Dr. Hampie van StadenVaalwater – Dr. Annemieke MüllerVanderbijlpark – Dr. Kobus Kok

Ostriches

Western CapeOudtshoorn – Ostrimed

Condition CommentsAvian influenza Multifocal point introductions. Breeders

worse affected drp in egg production. Sporadic mortalities. Green urine.

Diarrhoea Clostridial enterocolitisSinusitis Dusty environment/ some vitamin

deficiencies?

EquinesGautengPretoria

Opthalmia – Gedoelstia – 2 donkeysMagaliesburgImpaction colic in horses

KwaZulu-NatalCamperdownCrotolaria poisoning – I Suspected toxicity, emphysema

Eastern CapePort AlfredE. coli – Foal diarrhoea – 1 BathurstHoof abscesses – 2 cases, BathurstPhlegmosis of leg - 1 Bathuurst

Eastern CapeColesbergBotulism in a few horsesBiliary and herpes in a few maresImpaction colic in horses

Western CapeWellingtonHerpes – 1Colic - 2

Game

MpumalangaKarinoSelenium deficiency – affects the entire area. Diagnosed in one impala. With farms getting smaller and lucerne being fed, I do think this issue will become more complex and pronounced in game.

GautengMagaliesburgProtein and energy deficiency – 3Herd of 40 free ranging buffaolo on 2000 hectares with plenty of grass to allow them to pick up body condition, given additional lucerne . Their body condition score is usually 4, this year 2. Had to delay blood testing.PretoriaBrown ear-tick – 2Bont tick – 2Closantel poisoning – 2Eyes – 3 Moraxella

LimpopoAlldaysBlackquarter – 3 cases of blackquarter in buffalo on one farm. Clostridium chauvoei, C. novyi and one “harslag” blackquarter not typable.Bela-Bela

Lameness – Sable, could not find a reason, sable recovered. Trauma – white rhino, injury during fight.Cachexia – Nyala bull – very poor condition, treated with drop out dart, killed 2 days later by lynx.Stomach ulcers and wounds – probably due to stress cause by mother that pushed her away after birth of new baby.Death – Giraffe died after immobilization to treat foot when not abe to stand.Snare – huge wound on leg of waterbuck.ModimolleMites – Buffalo - 2 outbreaks of hair loss in buffalo herds. Awaiting results – suspect TrichophytonMokopaneBlue ticks 1Bont tick – 1Brown ear-tick - 1PolokwaneIntestinal roundworms – 3Resistant roundworms – 3Bont-legged tick -3Coccidiosis – 1Diarrhoea – 2Capture myopathy – 1

North WestKlerksdorpRed-legged ticks – 3Blue ticks – 2Bont legged ticks – 2Deaths – 2 Giraffes, young bulls – trauma due to fighting, blackquarter?VryburgIntestinal roundworm – 2 Springbok, OryxConical fluke – 2 Springbok, Sable, OryxBlue ticks - 3Lightning – Giraffe, SableSchweizer-RenekeMycoplasma – Roans positive on PCR

Eastern CapePort AlfredVerminosis – Sable calf (Langholm)Theileriosis – 1SableCapture myopathy – Blesbuck, 3 cases Kapriver (Moved from Free State)Steynsburg/MiddelburgEnergy deficiency -3Protein deficiency – 3Vitamin A deficiency -3

Monthly report on Livestock and Wildlife isolations for October 2017 from Vetdiagnostix –Microbiology Laboratory, supplied by dr. Marijke Henton (henton@vetdx.co.za)

Diarrhoea in young ruminants due to Cryptosporidium followed by secondary colibacillosis was again common in calves [16] and lambs [3] and a goat kid. Three of the E. coli isolates were ESBL [Extended Spectrum Beta Lactamase] producers, which means that they are resistant to all penicillins and cephalosporins, and usually other antibiotics as well. Such resistant strains have been selected by inappropriate antibiotic treatment of Cryptosporidium enteritis. Antibiotics do not affect Cryptosporidium.

There were three cases of enteritis in pigs, due to E. coli [2] and Klebsiella pneumoniae.

Abscesses and other purulent infections yielded Trueperella pyogenes in 6 cases. Four were in cattle [pneumonia, abscess, metritis], one kudu abscess and arthritis in a springbok.

Other respiratory infections in cattle were due to Mannheimia haemolytica [5], Pasteurella multocida [14], Histophilus somni [7], Mycoplasma [9] and one each of Mannheimia 8C and Klebsiella pneumoniae.

Mannheimia haemolytica and Pasteurella multocida caused two cases of pneumonia in sheep. A case of Blue Udder was also due to M. haemolytica. Moraxella ovis was isolated from a case of ovine opthalmia but it was unlikely to be the cause, as Moraxella ovis is of low virulence. Listeria monocytogenes was isolated from a case of meningitis.

Pneumonia in a pig was due to Pasteurella multocida. Staphylococcus hyicus was isolated, together with Staphylococcus aureus from a case of Greasy Pig disease.

Various wounds in horses yielded an ESBL positive Enterobacter and an ESBL positive E. coli. Other ESBL positive equine infections were caused by E. coli [arthritis] and Enterobacter [metritis]. A methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus [MRSA] was also isolated from an equine wound. These infections are also associated with excessive and inappropriate antibiotic use. Other isolates from infected wounds were Streptococcus zooepidemicus [2], S. equisimilis, Actinomyces [2] and Staphylocccus pseudintermedius. A foal had oral thrush due to Candida albicans.

.

Feedlot report received from Drs. Shaun Morris and Eben du Preez for October 2017 (edupreez1@telkomsa.net)

Condition Comments and SpecieTapeworms B 1Liver fluke B 3Parafilaria B 3Cysticercosis (measles) B 3Blue ticks B 3Heartwater tick B 3Brown ear-tick B 3Bont-legged tick B 3Red-legged tick B 3Blowflies O 1

African red water B 2Asiatic red water B 1Anaplasmosis B 3Heartwater B 1Lumpy skin disease B 3Red gut B 3Pulpy kidney O 3Bovine Brucellosis – Herd had previously been clean for 7 years

Bd 1

E .coli O 3Ringworm B 3Coccidiosis B 2EBL B 1Warts B 3Slangkop poisoning B 1Gifblaar B 1Protein deficiency B 3Energy deficiency B 3Phosphate deficiency B 3Vitamin A deficiency B,O 3Abortion B 3Dystocia B 1Metritis Bd 2Navell ill B 1Lameness B 3Lungs B,O 3Diarrhoea B,O 3Abscesses B,O 3Heatstroke B 2Trauma B 3

Monthly report for October 2017 from Dr R D Last (BVSc; M.Med.Vet(Path); MRCVS)

Specialist Veterinary Pathologist, Vetdiagnostix - Veterinary Pathology Services

ContributorsMr Butch Bosch, Ms Ntando Magoso, Mrs Beverley Williams, Ms Nicole Genga, Dr Rick Last

LIVESTOCK DISEASE SURVEILANCELIVESTOCK SPECIES DISEASE AGENT NO. CASES LOCATIONBovine, Dairy Cows Kikuyu poisoning 1 Howick, KZN

Bovine, Feedlot Steer Rumen acidosis plus leaky gut syndrome 1 Parys, Free StateBovine, Calves Cryptosporidiosis 1 Estcourt, KZN

Bovine, Adult Dairy Cow Pulmonary thromboembolism 1 Howick, KZN

Ovine, Aborted Fetus Chlamydia enzootic abortion 1Clocolan, Free

State

Bovine, Jersey Heifer Eosinophilic myocarditis 1Humansdorp,

E.CapeBovine, Calves Cryptosporidiosis 1 Kokstad, E. Cape

Bovine, Dairy CowsPasteurella multocida hemorrhagic

septicaemia 1 Dundee, KZN

Goats, Kids 4 weeks Cryptosporidiosis 1Rustenburg, North West

WILDLIFE DISEASE SURVEILANCE - 2017

WILDLIFE SPECIES DISEASE AGENTNO.

CASES LOCATIONServal Cat, Sub-

AdultFlea bite anaemia and silicate

pneumoconiosis 1 Parys, Free StateSpringbok, Adult Trueperella pyogenies arthritis 1 Ottosdal, North WestSable antelope,

Adult Cow Fibropapilloma (sarcoid) 1 Rooiberg, LimpopoAfrican Buffalo

Bull Heartwater 1 Eston, KZNRoan antelope,

SubadultProliferative bronchopneumonia (roan

pneumonopathy) 1 Rustenburg, North WestWildebeest, Adult Toxic cardiomyopathy 1 Polokwane, LimpopoImpala, Adult Ram Coccidiosis 1 Dwaalboom, Limpopo

Monthly report for October 2017 from Queenstown Provincial Veterinary Laboratory as supplied by Dr. A.D. Fisher (alan.fisher@drdar.gov.za)

Condition Area Comments and SpecieIntestinal roundworms O,C 3 (bankrupt- and wireworm)Biting lice Lady Frere,

CofimvabaO 3

Sheep scab Lady Frere, Cofimvaba

O 2

Heartwater Mqanduli C 1Blood gut Whittlesea C 1Pulpy kidney Cofimvaba O 1Brucellosis Mqanduli B 3Rabies Mthatha

DutywaTsolo, Cofimvaba

1 Canine1 Bovine2 Caprine

Coccidiosis 3 O,C

Enzootic Bovine Leucosis (EBL) Queenstown 31 out of 31 positive, Dairy cows

Protein deficiency B,O,C 3

Energy deficiency B,O,C 3

Acidosis C 1

Cold exposure O,C 3

Deaths reported by farmers Large scale ovine and caprine deaths throughout the area (MME: mismothering, malnutrition and exposure) – end of long drought conditions, grazing exhausted, conditions exacerbated by coccidiosis and verminosis (Haemonchus and Trichostrongylus).

Poaching 6 Rhino’s poached in 2 incidents: Sterkstroom area – gunshots

Poisoning Queenstown Between 30 and 50 dogs poisoned by suspected car theft syndicate operating in Queenstown and surrounding area Terbufos confirmed

B – bovine; O – ovine; C – caprine; P – pigs; G – game

1 = one case; 2 = 2 to 9 cases; 3 = more than 10 cases

Monthly report on Livestock and Wildlife isolations for October 2017 from IDEXX Laboratories supplied by dr. Liza du Plessis (Liza-DuPlessis@idexx.com)

Condition Comments and SpecieTapeworms G 1Heartwater tick B,E 1Red-legged tick E 1Theileriosis G 1Red gut B 1E. coli B,O 2Rabies B,G 1Jaagsiekte O 1Cryptosporidium O 1Equine sarcoid E 1Abortion B,O C, 1Retained afterbirth G 1Lungs G, P 1Diarrhoea B,O 2Hepatotoxicity B 1Cardiomyopathy B 1