IMPROVED DISEASE RESISTANCE AFTER BABESIA DIVERGENS VACCINATION

The efficacy of a new inactivated vaccine against Babesia divergens wa s evaluated by means of inoculation tests. The infection was initiated by i.v. injection of blood containing 2 x 10(9) living parasites into splenectomized and non-splenectomized calves. Clinical status and hem atological parameters were determined. Serology examinations for antib odies against B. divergens were carried out by indirect fluorescent an tibody test (IFAT). Non-vaccinated and splenectomized animals exhibite d experimental infections. In vaccinated and splenectomized animals, c linical symptoms and prolonged incubation periods were observed.