Related Experiment Videos
[Latency of Brucella abortus causes problems in oriented control: a review]
A A ter Huurne1, M Meijer, N A Dijkerman
1Vakgroep Infectieziekten en Immunologie, Faculteit der Diergeneeskunde, Universiteit Utrecht.
Tijdschrift Voor Diergeneeskunde
|November 1, 1993
Summary
Latent Brucella abortus infections in cattle calves pose a significant challenge to brucellosis control. Improved diagnostics and frequent testing are crucial for effective eradication programs.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Infectious Diseases
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Brucellosis, caused by Brucella abortus, is a significant concern in cattle populations worldwide.
- Latent infections in young cattle present unique challenges for disease control and eradication efforts.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the pathogenesis, epidemiology, and diagnostics of Brucella abortus in cattle.
- To highlight the difficulties in detecting latent infections in young stock and propose improvements for brucellosis control.
Main Methods:
- This review synthesizes existing knowledge on Brucella abortus in cattle.
- Emphasis is placed on the characteristics of latent infections in calves and their implications for disease management.
Main Results:
- Calves infected in utero or via milk can develop persistent, latent Brucella abortus infections.
- These latent infections are difficult to detect using standard serological tests until late in the animal's life.
- Latent infections in young stock can undermine brucellosis control and eradication programs.
Conclusions:
- Current diagnostic methods for Brucella abortus are insufficient for detecting latent infections in young cattle.
- Improvements in diagnostic sensitivity and increased testing frequency are recommended.
- Greater attention to abortion cases and strategic culling are necessary to prevent disease spread.