Photo: Magda du Toit
This is a book for farmers and veterinarians alike. Sadly, Du Preez passed away unexpectedly on 12 February 2024 at the age of 76 during the updating of the book.
A decision was made to revise and update the publication rather than just reprint it, due to the extent of the changes required. It boasts a new layout and cover, as well as updated information on animal diseases, diagnoses, and treatments. The previous edition was released in 2016.
Malan worked closely with Sanet du Plessis, responsible for overseeing editing, designing and production of the updated version of the book.
Vaccines and Immunisation of Farm Animals provides basic information on animal health and immunisation as a ready reference to farmers and veterinarians. It has and will continue to make a valuable contribution to maintaining healthier livestock and farm animals and preventing illness.
The book discusses the most important infectious diseases of animals that are of economic significance in South Africa and focuses on immunisation programmes for cattle, sheep, goats, horses, pigs, poultry and even rabbits.
Design Biologix, a manufacturer of vaccines and antibiotics, is the sponsor of this edition.
“It is our hope that the reader will find this book of great value as a comprehensive and helpful source of information,” Karen Nel, director and CEO of Design Biologix, said.
Speaking at the launch, Nel stressed the importance of proactive managing herd health throughout the life cycle of the animals. She pointed out that it was more cost-effective and less time-consuming to maintain a healthy herd than to treat sick animals.
“This book that we are launching today will serve as a comprehensive and valuable source of information to effectively manage the health of livestock in South Africa.”
Malan voiced his appreciation for the support of various role players, including Design Biologix and the family of the late Du Preez, in making the publication possible. He specifically thanked Agricultural Writers SA for its members’ photo contributions.
The book addresses key topics like the presence, transmission, and control of infectious diseases in livestock, signs for diagnosis, treatment options, zoonotic diseases, vaccine schedules, and reasons why immunisation may fail. It serves as a comprehensive reference on animal health and immunisation strategies for farmers and veterinarians.
The book is also available in Afrikaans as Entstowwe en Immunisering van Plaasdiere. Both books will be available on Loot and Takealot from mid-September 2024. The book will retail for R460, VAT and courier costs included.
For more info, contact [email protected].
