Livestock

Contagious Agalactia in Sheep and Goats: Welfare and Control

How Mycoplasma infections cause agalactia and welfare harm in small ruminant flocks.

Key Facts

Contagious agalactia is caused by Mycoplasma agalactiae in sheep and goats
Causes mastitis, arthritis, and keratoconjunctivitis — significant welfare impacts
No licensed treatment in the UK — control relies on culling and biosecurity
Endemic in Mediterranean countries — the UK monitors for it at borders

Welfare Considerations

Contagious agalactia causes significant welfare suffering — mastitis prevents nursing, arthritis impairs movement, and keratoconjunctivitis causes ocular pain and blindness. Welfare-focused flock management in endemic areas vaccinates where vaccines are available, culls clinically affected animals promptly, and maintains strict biosecurity to prevent spread. In the UK, any suspected case requires reporting to Animal and Plant Health Agency.

What You Can Do

Report suspected contagious agalactia cases to APHA immediately — it is a notifiable disease
Source replacement small ruminants from accredited disease-free flocks
Maintain strict biosecurity for sheep and goats purchased at market or from unknown sources