SR9099 - Investigation of Epizootic Catarrhal Gastroenteritis (ECG) of Farmed Mink

Researcher:

Dr. Bruce Hunter, Dept. of Pathobiology, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph

Objectives:

1. To describe the epidemiology of this disease in Ontario mink farms in order to "define" the condition.
   

2. To identify the causative agent(s) from field outbreaks of ECG in Ontario and Canadian mink farms.
   

3. To characterise the causative agent and develop a reliable diagnostic test for the disease.
   

4. To formulate recommendations to mink farmers regarding diagnosis, prevention and control of this condition.
   

Expected Benefits:

1. A better understanding of the nature and prevalence of this disease in Ontario.
   

2. Development of a concise definition of the condition.
   

3. Identification of the causative agent or agents.
   

4. Development of a more accurate method of diagnosis.
   

5. Development of a data base of information and recommendations that will help treat or prevent the condition.
   

Summary of Research Results:

This research has identified a series of Sapporo-like enteric caliciviruses from field outbreaks and epizootic catarrhal gastroenteritis (3-day enteritis) in commercial mink and reproduced the disease by infecting naïve mink to the virus. This provides evidence that calicivirus or a group of enteric caliciviruses may be the causative agent of the ECG in commercial mink. Further, the identification of calicivirus in three week old mink with preweaning diarrhea or "sticky kits" demonstrates that calicivirus may also play a role in this important disease of baby mink.