Vaccines for mycoplasma bovis and methods of use

Abstract

The invention of novel, effective vaccines against Mycoplasma bovis for use in cattle is described. These vaccines demonstrate no undesirable side effects and protect against M. bovis related disease, such as contagious mastitis, respiratory pneumonia, joint infections, keratoconjunctivitis and middle ear infections. The novel vaccines also lessen the effect of M. bovis infections on milk production, weight gain and animal health. Methods of diagnosing, characterizing and treating M. bovis infections as specific biotypes are also disclosed. Vaccine compositions made in accordance with the invention may be either of the attenuated or inactivated variety. Vaccines may also include antigens from other pathogens so as to provide a protective immunogenic response to diseases other than those caused by M. bovis.

1 . A method of vaccinating bovine animals against  Mycoplasma bovis  infection:
 comprising administering three doses of an oil emulsion adjuvanted  Mycoplasma bovis  vaccine by subcutaneous injection in the neck region;   where the first dose is administered at dry-off;   the second dose is administered 2 to 3 weeks following the first dose; and   the third dose is administered 2 to 3 weeks following the second dose.   
     
     
         2 . The method of  claim 1  where each dose is 2 milliliters of vaccine. 
     
     
         3 . The method of  claim 1  where the three doses are administered prior to calving. 
     
     
         4 . The method of  claim 3  where the third dose is administered at least 10 days prior to calving and the start of the lactation cycle.