Campylobacteriosis in Jamaican cattle

Infertility is a widespread problem among cattle herds in Jamaica and an intergovernmental project was initiated to investigate the problem. One aspect of the project included diagnosis of campylobacteriosis (vibriosis), which was suspected in some herds but had not been confirmed in the laboratory. Tests were undertaken in late 1978 using improved techniques for handling and transporting specimens to the laboratory. Campylobacter fetus subspecies fetus was isolated from five of six herds tested. The diagnosis of C. fetus infection has led to improvements in farm management and a better appreciation of more efficient artificial insemination and veterinary services.