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Leptospirosis

This disease can affect a wide variety of livestock, including deer. It primarily affects the kidneys, in some cases causing death. It can also cause weight loss and abortion. As it is transferable to humans it is known as a zoonosis disease. The most common strains of Leptospira in New Zealand (NZ) are Hardjo-bovis, Pomona and Copenhageni. Surveys of farmed deer in NZ suggest that infection with Hardjo-bovis is widespread. However this strain has a lesser effect on deer production than the Pomona strain.

How does the problem spread?
What are the symptoms?
Effect on deer production
Diagnosis
Control and treatment
Human health

More resources

Information on Leptospirosis is available in a convenient DINZ Deer Fact sheet (September 2015). Download your own copy here >>

 

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