Abstract

THERE are certain facts in regard to braxy and braxy-like diseases which strongly suggest that the root of the trouble lies in a temporary lessening of the efficiency of the thyroid gland, and a consequent lowering of the resistance of the body to bacterial invasion from the alimentary tract. If this be true, some preparation of thyroid, or even simple iodine, given to the sheep during the autumn and winter months would prevent serious losses amongst the flocks.

References

1. An excellent summary ot the facts in regard to thyroid is given by McCarrison, " The Thyroid Gland", 1917. A summary of the facts about braxy is given by: (1) Dakin, W. J., " Beverly Sheep Disease". Report of Biological Dept., University of Western Australia, 1918. (2) Gaiger, S. H., " Investigations into Braxy", Animal Disease Research Association (Scotland), Journ. of Pathology and Therapeutics, vol. xxxv. Parts 3 and 4, 1922. (3) McGowan, J. P., " Brachsot or Braxy", Centralbl. f. Bakt., etc., I. Abt, Originate, Bd. 91, Heft 1. Jena. Sept. 1923.