Abstract

The purpose of this study was to determine the distribution and viability of Mycobacterium avium paratuberculosis (Map) in various areas of sheep corrals. Four sample collections were carried out every three months for a year in three ovine Livestock Production Units (LPUs). Blood samples were collected from sheep (ELISA Anti-Map), as well as fecal samples. Fecal samples were collected from the following areas in the corrals: transit zones, food and water troughs (both inside and outside), and pipes and drains. All fecal samples were analyzed using IS900 PCRn and bacteriological culture. Statistical analyses were conducted using frequency analysis and the Chi-square test. Animals positive for Map from serological tests were found in two of the three LPUs, with a prevalence ranging from 15 to 24%; these animals were also found to be excreting Map (IS900 PCRn 14.2 to 32.1% and culture 2.6 to 21.4%). Of the four fecal samples taken from outside the feed and water troughs, 52.9 to 70% were positive for Map using IS900 PCRn, while the frequency of bacteriological culture ranged from 39.2 to 40% in the summer and autumn sample collections. All samples from pipes and drains were positive for Map using IS900 PCRn, with frequencies between 60 and 72.7%, while the frequencies for bacteriological culture ranged from 6.6 to 50%. Transit zones exhibited positive frequencies between 10 and 76.9% for IS900 PCRn and 5 to 50% for bacteriological culture. Identifying the areas and surfaces where Map remains viable within LPUs with sheep infected with paratuberculosis is important for establishing control measures and the gradual elimination of the presence, persistence, and dissemination of Map in production units.

Key words: Paratuberculosis, ovine, feces, facilities, viability, Map.