“PINK EYE”

Press, Volume LXXIV, Issue 22467, 30 July 1938, Page 11

“PINK EYE”

WARNING TO FLOCKOWNERS

Mr W. D. Blair, M.R.C.V.S., district superintendent of the Live Stock Division, supplies the following advice on the subject of contagious epthalmia, more commonly known as “pink eye,” in sheep:—

Officers engaged on the ‘‘sheep survey,” report that several cases of contagious epthalmia have recently come under notice, and while the condition, owing to its highly contagious nature, is serious at any time, it becomes infinitely more so in ewes approaching the lambing period. . Now, while the trouble invariably responds to treatment, still, with the high temperature and blindness, naturally loss of condition results; in other words, a check occurs, and as the latter is admittedly a cause of anlipartum paralysis or dopiness in ewes, sheep owners would be well advised to keep a sharp look-out for the first appearance of the trouble. When any cases are noticed, or even suspected, the affected animal should be removed immediately from the others, and kept apart until the trouble has cleared up. Again, should “pink eye” make its appearance at lambing time, it is unnecessary to draw attention to the added difficulties and extra work entailed in handling the affected ewes. The disease is caused by a virus, and is characterised in the early stages by inflammation of the eye and discharge of tears. Later on the eyeball becomes swollen and bloodshot—hence the name “pink eye.” This is followed by a white film covering the eye and a copious yellowish discharge therefrom and blindness, which, if leglected, may become permanent. Treatment Twice daily dress the eye with a solution of zinc sulphate, five grains to an ounce of water. If possible, it is advisable to first bathe the eye with a saturated solution of boracic acid. The zinc sulphate solution can be instilled into the eye with a dropper or a small oil can which has been sterilised by boiling. Affected ewes should be specially well fed to avoid any check in condition.