Preliminary observations on ovine paratuberculosis (Johne's disease) in Zambia

Abstract

In an imported flock of sheep from South Africa, an ewe became partially anorexic and gradually lost weight and body condition. The paratuberculosis (Johne’s disease) was confirmed on clinical, feacal and histopathological examination. Cultural examination remained doubtful. Serological investigation of other sheep in the flock and at other farm reacted to antibodies of Mycobacterium paratuberculosis on complement fixation test. The study suggests that the disease is actively spreading. This is the first report of ovine paratuberculosis in the Republic of Zambia.