Tyzzer's Disease

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This disease most often infects gerbils and mice, though rats

also are susceptible.  It is caused by the bacterium Bacillus

piliformis, which is usually transmitted by eating contaminated

food or water.  The bacterium may survive in spore form for

extremely long periods in soil, bedding and feed and is,

therefore, highly resistant.



Signs of infection are often inapparent but may include lethargy,

rough haircoat, and sudden death.  Another form of the disease

results in chronic wasting and death.  Diarrhea may or may not be

noted.



The disease is difficult to diagnose in individuals before death.

It is considerably easier to diagnose during an autopsy.

Sacrificing 1-2 individuals of a large group and performing

autopsies on them are recommended to successfully treat and

perhaps spare the majority of the group.



Specific antibiotics must be used early in the course of the

disease.  Some evidence indicates that this disease can be

transmitted to pregnant women.  Therefore, all necessary

precautions should be taken to prevent this possibility.