CAEV : Vorlaufige Ergebnisse eines alternativen Protokolls zur Kontrolle der CAE in einem Ziegenbetrieb der Rasse "Passeirer Gebirgsziege"

Objective: Considering the specific conditions (high sero-prevalence, high genetic merit, rare breed, and commune pasture) in the described herd, an alternative method to control the disease was chosen. The aim of this control program was to reduce clinical signs and to preserve the high genetic merit. Material and methods: The newborns were seggregated immediately after birth and fed with bovine colostrum/milk. At the age of five to six months direct contact with the adults at pasture was possible. Goats tested positive were not killed immediatelly: Animals with low breed value and without signs were slaugthered or sold, goats with high value were kept in the herd as long as possible. Results and conclusions: Infection could not be prevented, but the clinical symptoms almost disappeared. Thus the high genetic potential of this goat herd could be utilized longer. The sexual and aerogenic transmission seemed to be an important factor for spread of infection in this herd. Clinical relevance: Aim, voluntary and perseverance of the breeder and the serological status of neighbouring goat flocks are important factors which have to be considered before the establishment of a control program. The described method seems to be suitable in flocks with high seroprevalence, high genetic merit, and open status. A further evaluation after some years is certainly necessary. Virus persistance and the annually intensive work of the goat colostrum deprived rearing method are certainly disavantages of this alternative program.