Ovine Johne’s Disease

Ovine Johne’s Disease (OJD) was first described in 1985.  OJD is a condition caused by the bacterium “Mycobacterium avium spp. Paratuberculosis” (MAP).  Johne’s is a condition which affects all ruminants, although not in the same way.  OJD is a chronic condition which is responsible for causing a reduction in productivity, immunity and fertility.  Research by the University of Glasgow also indicates that mortality rates are significantly higher (4-12%) within infected flocks in comparison to healthy flocks (1-2%).  There is no perfect test to diagnose Johne’s in a live animal – however, a licenced vaccine is available in the UK which can reduce both the severity of clinical signs and subsequent mortality rate.

Johne’s Disease Factsheet