There is no requirement to report the disease in Ireland. The pathogen is prevalent worldwide and is also found in Switzerland. (Symbolic image)
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In recent months, the regional veterinary laboratories of the Irish Department of Agriculture have noted a significant rise in the occurrence of what is known as gangrene in cattle submitted for autopsy.
This disease is associated with severe general disturbances and is typically fatal after a short duration. Infection occurs through the ingestion of clostridial spores. Vaccination can prevent the disease.
No Reporting Requirement
According to the Dublin Department of Agriculture, there were a total of 29 confirmed outbreaks with at least one death between April and August 8 of this year. The majority of reports originated from the southern part of Ireland, although this likely reflects the greater livestock density in that area.
The ministry clarified that it does not maintain records of the number of animals euthanized, as there is no obligation to do so.
Present in Germany as Well
According to the latest annual animal health report from the Friedrich Loeffler Institute (FLI), six new outbreaks of black gangrene were reported in Germany in 2022.
The last instance of a higher count was in 2017, with eight outbreaks, and the last time it reached double digits was in 2012. In the 1970s, an average of 65 new outbreaks of intoxication were recorded each year in the former Federal Republic.
Rauschbrand
Black gangrene is an acute and highly feverish infectious disease affecting cattle and sheep. Affected cattle exhibit severe general disturbances and high fever. Initially, painful and hot swellings with gas formation become apparent locally, particularly in the large muscles of the legs and body. Eventually, the swellings cool and become numb. When touched, a crackling sound can be heard. Affected sheep demonstrate significant lameness.
Animals are typically infected through minor injuries, such as mucous membrane damage during teething. Cattle are particularly vulnerable to the disease between six months and two years of age. Sheep often get infected due to injuries sustained during shearing, tail docking, or childbirth. As a pasture disease, black gangrene primarily appears during the summer months.
The pathogen is the bacterium Clostridium chauvoei. Spores from this pathogen are highly resilient, capable of surviving in soil for years and contaminating feeding areas.
This pathogen is common worldwide and is also present in Switzerland. Individual cases occur each year in summer-grazing animals in the Alps. Typical regions where black gangrene appears include the Bernese Oberland, the Fribourg Alps, the Jura, and the cantons of Schwyz, Lucerne, St. Gallen, Vaud, and Valais.
Vaccinations are available to prevent the disease, and the vaccination is approved in Switzerland. It is the responsibility of animal owners to ensure their livestock are vaccinated in areas prone to this disease before they are taken up to the Alps. -> Source: BLV
There is no obligation to record the disease in Ireland. The pathogen is widespread worldwide and also occurs in Switzerland. (Symbolic image)
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The Rise of Gangrene in Cattle: A Global Concern
In recent months, there has been a significant uptick in reported cases of gangrene in cattle across various regions, notably in Ireland. This disease, caused by the bacterium Clostridium chauvoei, poses severe health risks to livestock and can result in fatalities within a short time frame if not treated promptly.
Recent Observations from Ireland
According to the regional veterinary laboratories of the Irish Department of Agriculture, there were 29 confirmed outbreaks of gangrene with at least one recorded death between April and August 8 of this year. Although most reports originated from the southern half of Ireland, this distribution likely reflects the region’s higher livestock density.
Significantly, the department has noted that there is no obligation to maintain records of cattle euthanized due to this disease, making it difficult to gauge the full extent of its impact.
Germany Reports Similar Trends
Germany is also experiencing a resurgence of gangrene cases, according to the latest annual animal health report from the Friedrich Loeffler Institute (FLI). In 2022, six new outbreaks were reported, a number that hasn’t been seen since 2017. This uptick marks a worrying trend, highlighting the need for vigilance in cattle health management.
Understanding Black Gangrene
Black gangrene, known scientifically as Rauschbrand, is an acute and highly infectious disease affecting cattle and sheep. Initial symptoms include:
- Severe general disorders
- High fever
- Painful and hot swellings with gas formation, notably in the muscles of the legs and trunk
As the disease progresses, these swellings can become cold and numb, producing a characteristic crackling sound upon touch. Sheep predominantly exhibit severe lameness when afflicted.
Transmission and Susceptibility
Gangrene can typically infect animals through minor injuries, such as:
- Mucous membrane injuries during teething in cattle
- Injuries sustained during shearing or tail docking in sheep
- Injuries occurring during birthing
Cattle aged between six months and two years are particularly susceptible, while outdoor conditions create increased risks during the summer months. The bacterium’s spores are resilient, surviving in the soil for years and contaminating feed areas.
Global Distribution of the Pathogen
The presence of Clostridium chauvoei is not limited to Ireland or Germany; it is a global concern. Switzerland also reports sporadic cases, especially during the summer grazing season in alpine areas. In particular, regions such as the Bernese Oberland, the Fribourg Alps, the Jura, and several cantons including Schwyz, Lucerne, St. Gallen, Vaud, and Valais are identified as high-risk areas.
Preventative Measures: Vaccination
Vaccination remains the most effective strategy for preventing gangrene in cattle and sheep. In Switzerland, vaccinations are approved and recommended for animal owners, especially those operating in regions known to have high incidences of the disease. The following points summarize essential vaccination practices:
- Vaccinate animals in areas prone to black gangrene before moving them to pastures in the Alps.
- Regularly consult with veterinary health professionals to withstand seasonal risks.
- Maintain accurate health records, despite the absence of mandatory reporting from agriculture departments.
A proactive vaccination strategy can significantly mitigate the risks associated with black gangrene, ensuring healthier livestock and reducing potential economic losses.
Case Studies: Impacts and Insights
Case Study 1: Ireland’s Outbreaks
In a single instance reported in southern Ireland, several farmers lost multiple cattle to gangrene outbreaks. The rapid spread and high mortality rates highlighted the necessity for immediate veterinary intervention and the acceleration of vaccination practices within the community.
Case Study 2: Swiss Alpine Concerns
A farmer in the Bernese Oberland observed an increase in cattle testing positive for black gangrene after sustaining injuries during pasture management. The swift implementation of a vaccination program resulted in no further incidences post-intervention. This underscores the importance of responsive herd management practices.
Practical Tips for Farmers
- Monitor Pastures: Regularly check for hazards that may lead to injuries in livestock.
- Maintain Hygiene: Ensure that feeding areas are kept clean to minimize contamination exposure.
- Educate and Inform: Stay updated on the latest veterinary advancements regarding gangrene and participate in local farming community workshops.
Conclusion: Taking Action Against Gangrene
As the incidence of gangrene in cattle rises globally, it is crucial for farmers and animal owners to remain informed and proactive. The implementation of effective vaccination programs and adherence to best practices in herd management can significantly reduce risks and protect livestock health.
For Additional Information
Farmers looking to educate themselves further about gangrene and its impacts can refer to official resources provided by agricultural departments.
For more information on preventive measures, please visit the BLV Source.
