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Bovine papular stomatitis incidence in veterinary students
Summary
Bovine papular stomatitis is common in veterinary students, with mild symptoms often going unnoticed. Surveillance found infections are not unusual in this population.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- Bovine papular stomatitis (BPS) is a viral disease affecting cattle.
- Potential for zoonotic transmission to humans, particularly veterinary professionals, is a concern.
- Previous understanding of BPS prevalence in veterinary students was limited.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence and incidence of bovine papular stomatitis-like lesions in veterinary medical students.
- To assess the risk factors associated with BPS infection in this population.
Main Methods:
- A surveillance program was implemented in a university veterinary clinic following initial suspected cases.
- A cohort of veterinary students was surveyed regarding cattle exposure and BPS-like lesions.
- Students were monitored for lesion development throughout their clinical training.
Main Results:
- Of 115 senior students, 59 reported frequent hand-to-mouth contact with cattle; one student had a prior BPS-like lesion.
- One case of BPS occurred during 8483 person-days in high-risk clinical areas.
- The incidence of BPS in students was comparable to other exposures like rabies vaccination or brucella antibodies.
Conclusions:
- Bovine papular stomatitis infections appear to be relatively common among veterinary students.
- Mild clinical manifestations may lead to underreporting and a perception of low clinical importance.
- Increased awareness and surveillance may be warranted in veterinary training settings.