Fatal Outbreaks of Malignant Catarrhal Fever in 2 Dairy Herds in the Netherlands-Juniper Publishers
JUNIPER PUBLISHERS - OPEN ACCESS JOURNAL OF DAIRY & VETERINARY SCIENCES Abstract Background: Sheep-associated Malignant Catarrhal Fever (SA-MCF) is caused by Ovine Herpes Virus-2. This virus is endemic in most sheep and is the major cause of malignant catarrhal fever worldwide, while last the decennium goats may function as carriers also. Several other viruses are associated with MCF in different other species in the Netherlands. Based on 2 large outbreaks the risks for MCF in case of presence of sheep in dairy herds is discussed. Results: In one herd 10 dairy cows, 10 of the 21 pregnant (3-6 months of gravidity) youngstock, and 1 non-pregnant heifer and 1 calf all in the same barn died or were euthanized. In the other herd 5 dairy cows, 20 pregnant youngstock and 10 calves died or were euthanized. Based on clinical presentation, post-mortal investigation the diagnosis could be confirmed. Diagnosis and aetio-pathogenesis is discussed. Conclusion: SA-MCF is able to...