TRANSFER AND PERSISTENCE OF MATERNAL ANTIBODIES AGAINST THEILERIA-ANNULATA IN CALVES

The transfer of maternal antibodies to calves born to Theileria annula ta-vaccinated (Rakshavac-T) and unvaccinated darns was estimated by av idin-biotin ELISA test in 3 breeds of cattle. Red Sindhi breed showed higher optical density (OD) values followed by Holstein-Friesian. The lowest values were observed in Jersey cattle. The investigation reveal ed significant higher antibody levels in calves born to vaccinated dam s with lower values in calves of unvaccinated dams. The antibody titre of calves showed a progressive increase till 30 days of birth. It att ained the peak at 60 days and gradually declined from 90 days onwards in calves of both groups.