Title: Scours-Cryptosporidiosis
Very
similar to Coccidiosis, these oocysts (eggs) are shed in great numbers
and infect young kids via oral contact (fecal contamination of the feed
or water supply). Infection can be detected as early as 5 days of age
(neonates will pick up the oocysts from the teats of the dam who have
laid in infected areas).
This is a zoonotic disease, in other
words, transmittable between species including humans. Baby kids
typically are infected within the first week of life and are fairly
resistant by 4 weeks of age. Other symptoms include, dehydration,
anorexia, high morbidity (because of dehydration). Scouring can last up
to 2 weeks and can be continual or intermittent. Other symptoms may
include, depression, rough hair coat, inappetance, electrolyte
imbalance, acidosis and death may occur. Spontaneous recovery may also
occur. NO specific treatment exists, anti-coccidial drugs and
antibiotics are not successful as a treatment. Scours are yellow or
pale, watery, and contain mucus. The persistent scouring causes weight
loss and emaciation. In most cases, the scouring may stop on it's own
after several days.
Improve hygiene, remove infected kids from
others, clean pens daily (Oocyst infected areas can be destroyed by
ammonia, 10% formalin, freeze-drying, and exposure to temperatures
<32°F (0°C) or >149°F (65°C). Ammonium hydroxide, hydrogen
peroxide, chlorine dioxide, 10% formol saline, and 5% ammonia are
effective in destroying oocyst infected areas). The disease is
difficult to control and difficult to diagnose with normal light
microscopy but can detected by phase-contrast microscopy. Your vet will
need to know this (many do not).
Fluid therapy is a must and
because the scouring may last up to 2 weeks, milk withdrawal is not
possible. Instead more frequent feedings, alternating milk with other
fluids, (electrolytes and water) may help the gut avoid undigested
lactose. ©2006 goatlady All Rights Reserved
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