Significance of respiratory diseases in the health management of sheep

Abstract Objectives of the present article are to review the financial significance of respiratory diseases and to indicate their relevance within the health management of sheep. In lambs, the principal adverse effects of the diseases are related to mortality, reduced carcass quality, veterinary expenses, decrease of average daily bodyweight gain and poor quality of lambs produced. In adult animals, financial losses are related to reduced production of affected sheep, need for early culling and death. Given the multi-faceted nature of these diseases, management practices (e.g., housing improvements, implementation of biosecurity provisions) need to be considered for their prevention; as environmental conditions also play a role in development of these diseases, they should be taken into account. Appropriate health measures (e.g., vaccinations) that improve animal immune response also will help control of the diseases.