[Investigation of serological prevalence and risk factors of paratuberculosis in dairy farms in the state of Mecklenburg-Westpommerania, Germany].

A total of 2,997 serum samples were randomly taken at 59 pre-selected dairy farms covering all districts with an average of 334 animals kept per farm. Samples were analysed for antibodies against Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis (M.a.p.) using Svanovir-ELISA. Risk factors on farm characteristics and animal health were recorded at all participating farms by use of a questionnaire. Fifty out of 59 farms (84.7%) showed at least one reactor. The average within herd prevalence was 12.2%. In the univariate analysis of risk factors no significant differences towards farm prevalences were found. Results are discussed with special emphasis on the need for a common national strategy to control the disease in Germany.