<i>Herpesvirus hominis</i> Type 2 Infections in Rabbits: Effect of Prior Immunization with Attenuated <i>Mycobacterium bovis</i> (BCG) Cells

Abstract

Angora, New Zealand, and Dutch-belted rabbits were tested for their susceptibility to graded doses of Herpesvirus hominis type 2 administered by vaginal instillation, intracorneal injection, and scarification of the cornea. Central nervous system involvement and death occurred after infection by the various routes employed. Prior immunization of Dutch-belted and New Zealand rabbits with viable Mycobacterium bovis (BCG) cells injected intravenously provided protection against subsequent infections with type 2 virus.