Struck in sheep
Struck is a disease that affects adult sheep, primarily when they are out at pasture. It's caused by the bacterium Clostridium perfringens type C. This disease is most commonly observed in the spring, particularly in sheep that are in good condition. Struck can also affect 6 to 8-month-old finishing lambs. Factors such as abrupt dietary changes and sudden concentrate feeding can contribute to the onset of this disease.
Symptoms and Diagnosis of Struck 🩺
The first sign of struck is often the sudden death of sheep, which are usually found lying on their sternum. If the sheep are found alive, they may appear dull, reluctant to move, and possibly lame. The disease is sporadic, meaning it doesn't affect all sheep at once. The bacteria are ingested from the soil or may already be present in small numbers in the sheep's intestinal tract. Rapid multiplication of the bacteria leads to the production of beta toxin, which causes extensive damage to the intestinal lining.
Diagnosis is typically based on the history of the flock, lack of clinical signs, and necropsy findings. The presence of beta toxin in the gut contents can confirm the diagnosis, but it must align with the necropsy findings and the flock's history.
Treatment of Struck 💊
Unfortunately, treatment for struck is not practical due to the peracute nature of the disease, meaning it progresses very quickly. Once symptoms appear, it is often too late for treatment to be effective.
Prevention of Struck 🛡️
Prevention is key when it comes to managing struck. Vaccination is the most effective method to prevent the disease. Additionally, managing the diet to avoid abrupt changes and moving sheep to less lush pastures can help reduce the risk. It's also important to ensure that sheep are not overcrowded and that their environment is kept clean to minimize the risk of infection.