Protecting against a new strain of leptospirosis

LEPTOSPIROSIS (LEPTO) IS a zoonotic disease caused by bacteria that is spread from animals to humans. Lepto is contracted most commonly though exposure to the urine of infected animals, either through direct contact or via contaminated water.
It is especially prevalent on dairy farms due to close contact with cattle, and symptoms in humans can often be serious enough to cause hospitalisation.
In recent years, cases of lepto have been seen in farmers and staff working on vaccinated dairy farms, leading to the discovery of a new strain of lepto called Pacifica.
Virbac technical services manager Matt Wells says, “The discovery of this new strain has significant health implications for anyone working closely with dairy cows, including farmers and their staff.” Recent research suggests that Pacifica could be present in up to three quarters of dairy herds in New Zealand.
A new vaccine, Lepto 4-Way™, has been developed to provide protection against the new Pacifica strain as well as the existing Hardjo, Pomona and Copenhageni strains, previously covered by vaccines. It is currently the only registered cattle vaccine in New Zealand that protects against Pacifica.
Virbac is working closely with individual veterinary practices to raise awareness of the specific risk posed by Pacifica, as well as the importance of overall disease prevention onfarm.
Wells says, “We’re conscious of making sure when we’re talking
about leptospirosis, we talk about addressing all the risks. Vaccination is critical, and the new vaccine is an important step towards mitigating disease in humans, but many other preventative factors need to be considered as well.”
MORE? Ask your vet for Lepto 4-Way™. The most advanced protection against lepto for farmers, farm workers and their families.
For more information about prevention of leptospirosis on your farm visit www.lepto.co.nz