Losing just one or two lambs to clostridial or pasteurella infections could offset the cost of vaccination, according to UK-based vets.
Their advice to farmers follows the release of data from Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) showing that clostridial diseases consistently rank among the most frequent sheep submission diagnoses.
Charlie Parker from Oakhill Vets in Lancashire said: “All lambs are at risk from clostridia since the bacteria are naturally present in soil, the environment, and the intestinal tract.
“Outbreaks tend to occur when animals are stressed by changes in weather, nutrition, parasites, or if they suffer a puncture wound, which gives the bacteria a route in.
He added that it is not the bacteria itself that causes death, but the spores that multiply and produce toxins when ingested.
“The symptoms and disease outcome will depend on the type of clostridial bacteria involved.”
Clinical signs of clostridial diseases, such as pulpy kidney and lamb dysentery, often appear suddenly and are severe, with dead lambs being the most common outcome.
Other indications may include a high temperature, depression, collapse, stiffness, convulsions, scouring, and abdominal pain.
Parker said while vaccinating ewes with Heptavac P Plus provides passive immunity through colostrum, this protection wanes after about three weeks, leaving lambs vulnerable unless vaccinated.
MSD Animal Health veterinary advis0r, Dr. Kat Baxter Smith, said the unpredictable nature of stress-related triggers makes vaccination essential, and stressed the importance of completing the full schedule of vaccinations.
“It’s not enough to give one shot and assume the job is done. A primary course followed by a booster is essential for full protection.
“Skipping the booster leaves lambs vulnerable, especially during high-risk periods such as weaning.”
Dr. Baxter Smith added that while clostridial diseases are often acute, they are among the easiest to prevent through vaccination.
“Clostridial disease can strike quickly, and once symptoms appear, treatment options are limited.”
“Vaccination gives farmers peace of mind and reduces the risk of costly losses.”
