Passive immunization of hamsters against disease caused by Clostridium difficile by use of bovine immunoglobulin G concentrate.

Gestating Holstein cows were vaccinated with Clostridium difficile toxoid prepared from the culture filtrate of a strain that produces high levels of toxins A and B and other antigens. A bovine immunoglobulin G (IgG) concentrate was prepared from colostrum collected at parturition. The results of our studies showed that hamsters treated prophylactically with the hyperimmune bovine IgG concentrate were protected against C. difficile disease. These results suggest that orally administered hyperimmune bovine IgG specific for C. difficile culture filtrate may be useful in prophylaxis against C. difficile disease.