Ovine and Caprine Listeriosis Study Guide
Overview and Clinical Importance
Listeriosis (also known as "circling disease" or "silage sickness") is a highly fatal bacterial infection caused by Listeria monocytogenes, a gram-positive, facultative anaerobic, intracellular coccobacillus. Small ruminants (sheep and goats) are particularly susceptible and demonstrate rapid disease progression with high mortality rates. The encephalitic form is the most commonly tested presentation on the NAVLE.
This disease represents a significant zoonotic concern, particularly for pregnant women and immunocompromised individuals who should avoid contact with affected animals and raw milk products.
Etiology and Epidemiology
Causative Agent
Listeria monocytogenes is a ubiquitous environmental organism found in soil, water, decaying vegetation, feces of healthy animals, and improperly fermented silage. Key characteristics include:
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