Isolation of Neisseria ovis and a Colesiota conjunctivae-like organism from cases of kerato-conjunctivitis in reindeer in northern Norway.

Eye inflammation in reindeer seems to be a condition frequently observed in many reindeer herding areas. Bergmann (1912) reported outbreaks of the condition in Scandinavia already at the beginning of this century, and it spread like a contagious disease. The aetiology seems to be complex, as Bergmann found many different kinds of bacteria in his material. In a recent publication, Rehbinder (1970) reported the occurrence of larvae of the reindeer nostril fly (Cephenomyia trompe) in affected eyes. In Norway, eye inflammation in reindeer has also been observed, although outbreaks of the disease seem to be rare.