Epidemiologic and Pathologic Aspects of an Epizootic of Malignant Catarrhal Fever in Exotic Hoofstock

An epizootic of malignant catarrh- al fever (MCF) occurred at the Los Angeles Zoological Park which resulted in the deaths of four exotic ungulates. The source of infection was considered to be a newly purchased wil- debeest bull (Connochaetes taurinus taurinus) that had been negative for antibody to MCF virus by an indirect immunofluorescent test. The need to re-evaluate regulations for the trans- portation and housing of young wildebeest is emphasized by this MCF outbreak. The diag- nostic technology now available for identifying asymptomatic carriers of MCF virus and the present understanding of the behavior and pathogenesis of this highly cell-associated her- pesvirus in exotic ruminants should provide a basis for the prevention and control of MCF in