[The intradermal tuberculin test: literature, directive and implementation in practice]

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Infectious Disease Control
• Animal Health Management

Context:

• Rising bovine tuberculosis cases in southern Germany necessitate renewed testing protocols.
• The Allgäu region, particularly Swabia, faces increased disease incidence.
• Current veterinary practices for intradermal tuberculin testing require evaluation.

Purpose:

• To assess veterinarians' knowledge and adherence to intradermal tuberculin testing techniques.
• To identify discrepancies between current practices and legislative requirements (Commission Regulation (EC) no. 1226/2002).
• To develop a standardized guide for accurate intradermal tuberculin test execution and interpretation.

Summary:

• A survey of 137 veterinarians revealed that while most perform the intradermal tuberculin test correctly, many deviate in result evaluation.
• Compliance with Commission Regulation (EC) no. 1226/2002 is high for test execution but lower for interpretation.
• Practitioners in highly affected areas like Swabia showed better adherence, though inconsistencies persist.

Impact:

• The study highlights the need for improved uniformity and diligence in interpreting intradermal tuberculin test results.
• A newly developed guide is expected to enhance the performance and standardization of bovine tuberculosis testing.
• Addressing these gaps is crucial for effective control of bovine tuberculosis in affected regions.