A trivalent leptospiral vaccine with emphasis on a Leptospira interrogans serovar hardjo component to prevent leptospiruria

Authors: Liardet DM, Flint SH
Publication: New Zealand Veterinary Journal, Volume 28, Issue 12, pp 263-266, Dec 1980
Publisher: Taylor and Francis

Animal type: Cattle, Livestock, Production animal, Ruminant, Wildlife
Subject Terms: Animal remedies/veterinary medicines, Bacterial, Immune system/immunology, Zoonosis, Disease/defect, Infectious disease, Research/development, Urinary system/urology, Vaccination, Public health
Article class: Scientific Article

---

Abstract: A trivalent leptospiral vaccine prepared by incorporating servovar hardjo in an existing pomona, copenhageni product has been evaluated in both hamsters and cattle. Hamster challenge tests were performed on all 3 components. The hardjo component was initially tested as a separate entity and later in combination with the other serovars using a challenge test. In no case were vaccinated hamsters infected from a hardjo challenge which infected 8/10 non-vaccinated animals. The pomona and copenhageni components passed the European Pharmacopoea potency test for leptospiral vaccines. Both artificial and natural exposure trials in cattle demonstrated protection against urinary shedding. Vaccinated cattle failed to develop leptospiruria when exposed to an artificial hardjo challenge which produced shedding in 7/10 unvaccinated animals. Trials conducted on 9 dairy farms with leptospirosis problems demonstrated prevention of leptospiruria by vaccination. Protection persisted for at least 12 months.

---