Serological titres following vaccination of sheep and goats with Brucella melitensis Rev I vaccine

Abstract

Rev 1 vaccination of sheep induced complement fixation titres to both Brucella abortus and Brucella ovis antigens, the complement fixing antibody titres were, however, higher with the B. abortus antigen. These titres generally fell to negative levels (below 1/20) within 5 to 6 months of vaccination. In goats Rev 1 vaccination induced complement fixation titres against B. abortus antigen which fell to negative levels within 5 to 6 months. Agglutination at 37°C or 56°C, agglutination in 5% NaCl, and Coombs tests are less useful in vaccinated animals as titres remain at positive levels for much longer periods after vaccination.