Brucellosis Impact in Cattle

Brucellosis Impact and Management in Cattle Health

Brucellosis in cattle, notably caused by Brucella abortus, is a significant veterinary concern due to its impact on reproductive health, leading to abortions typically in the latter half of gestation. Contrary to a common misconception, affected cows usually experience this adverse outcome once, with subsequent pregnancies often proceeding normally. This condition not only affects cattle but also spans across various domestic animals, including pigs, which are susceptible to Brucella suis.

Diagnosis hinges on serological testing, with serum agglutination at specific dilutions indicating positive reactors, taking into account the vaccination status of the animal. The Brucella milk ring test, while useful, can yield high false positives, necessitating careful interpretation of results.

There is no effective treatment for brucellosis; hence, control measures focus on herd testing, culling of infected animals, and vaccination strategies employing strains like 19 or RB51 to bolster resistance within the herd. The approach to managing this disease is primarily preventive, aiming to curb its spread and mitigate its impact on animal health and productivity. Additionally, brucellosis poses zoonotic risks, underlining the importance of rigorous disease management and biosecurity practices to protect both animal and human health.

Diagnostic tests for brucellosis in cattle primarily involve serological assays like the Milk Ring Test for bulk milk samples, and the Rose Bengal Plate Test, ELISA, or Complement Fixation Test for individual animals. Positive results indicate exposure to Brucella bacteria but require further testing for confirmation due to possible false positives. The bacterial isolation from milk, blood, or tissues offers a definitive diagnosis. Interpretation of results must consider the test's sensitivity and specificity, along with the animal's history and clinical signs.

A profound comprehension of brucellosis’ epidemiology, diagnostic approaches, and preventive strategies is imperative for optimizing herd health management and safeguarding public health. This encompasses understanding the specific dilutions for serological tests—1:100 for unvaccinated and 1:200 for vaccinated animals as indicative of a positive reaction—and the critical evaluation of diagnostic results against the backdrop of the animal’s clinical history and symptomatology.

REFERENCES:

Merck Veterinary Manual. Brucellosis in Cattle.