Ovine Johnes Disease present in the Northern Tablelands

Image source: https://localvet.com.au/Rural-Vet-Services/OvineJohnesDiseaseAssurance

Local Land Services is advising sheep producers to be on the lookout for signs of Ovine Johnes Disease (OJD) in their flocks, with the condition now being observed across the entire state.

OJD is a chronic wasting disease of sheep and is caused by a bacterial infection. The bacteria are shed in faeces and are spread when a susceptible sheep eats or drinks contaminated material.

OJD causes inflammation and thickening of the sheep’s intestines which affects their ability to absorb nutrients, leading to diarrhoea and loss of body condition. OJD has a long incubation period which means sheep are usually at least two to three years old before they become clinically affected and show any signs of disease.

Northern Tablelands District Veterinarian, Meg Parsons, said “When animals are under stress or in periods of poor nutrition signs may be noticed sooner.

“There is no treatment or cure for OJD and so the focus is on preventing clinical cases within a flock or stopping infection from entering an OJD free flock.”

In the past year, several cases of OJD have been diagnosed across the Northern Tablelands district. While it used to be considered a ‘southern’ disease, OJD is now endemic across NSW.

While OJD is still a notifiable disease, since the end of the National OJD Management Plan in 2018 there have been many changes in how it is managed. Infected properties are no longer quarantined, and there are few restrictions in how they move or sell stock.

“With this disease now endemic within our region, we’re urging producers to consider OJD within their property and stock management.

“This should always include revisiting your farm biosecurity plans, including requesting Sheep Health Declarations when purchasing new sheep, or purchasing from vaccinated or SheepMAP accredited flocks”, Meg said.

Vaccination with Gudair® is available for lambs to help prevent clinical cases and reduce the amount of bacterial shedding in infected animals. Vaccination can be considered for properties with a positive or unknown OJD status.

If you would like more information about OJD or management of your flock, contact your nearest Local Land Services District Veterinarian on 1300 795 299.