Mycoplasma agalactiae

Mycoplasma agalactiae

Mycoplasma agalactiae is the causative agent of Contagious Agalactia, a highly infectious disease primarily affecting dairy sheep and goats. It causes significant economic losses due to mastitis, arthritis, conjunctivitis, and abortion, particularly in intensively managed flocks.

Transmission occurs via:

• Milk and colostrum
• Direct contact between animals
• Contaminated milking equipment or personnel

Clinical signs include:

• Acute mastitis – reduced or absent milk yield, udder swelling
• Conjunctivitis – ocular discharge, corneal opacity
• Polyarthritis – joint swelling, lameness
• Abortion in late gestation (less common but possible)

qPCR testing provides:

• Sensitive and rapid detection of M. agalactiae DNA in milk, joint aspirates, ocular swabs, or vaginal discharges
• Faster and more reliable than culture, especially in subclinical or chronic infections
• Supports early intervention to prevent spread within and between flocks

This test is critical for:

• Diagnosis during outbreaks of mastitis or contagious agalactia
• Flock surveillance and certification programs
• Pre-introduction testing in closed or accredited herds

Prompt detection allows for effective biosecurity, culling, and treatment strategies, reducing production losses and improving animal welfare.