Improved vaccination protocol to enhance immunity in lambs of Kuwait farms

Abstract EN

The susceptibility of lambs to infective diseases should be minimized by improving the immunity of lambs through effective vaccination procedures to abate lamb mortality in sheep farms.

in this regard, field experiments were carried out with 180 pregnant ewes of Naeemi sheep breed at the PAAFR (public authority for agriculture and fisheries research station, kuwait).

the results revealed that the concentration of serum IG’S in blood samples collected from ewes vaccinated during pregnancy with pasteurella, clostridia, FMD (foot and mouth disease) and PPR (peste des petits ruminants) vaccines was significantly elevated as vaccination against these four diseases agents would have ultimately resulted in circulating antibodies protecting the animals against natural exposure.

the concentration of colostral ig’s produced by vaccinated ewes during the pregnancy period was significantly (p < 0.05) higher than the normal colostrum secreted from unvaccinated ewes during pregnancy, ensuring the positive role of the colostrum in transferring passive immunity.

the results clearly illustrated no cases of mortality and abortion, as vaccination has played a role in maintaining the health of ewes by overcoming the targeted pathogens and preventing any abnormalities in the pregnant ewes.

the present study confirmed the improved immune status of young lambs born to ewes vaccinated twice during pregnancy, reflecting improved health status.

it is recommended to maintain 21 days’ intervals in vaccinating ewes with different vaccines for specific diseases.