Bovine campylobacteriosis
Gastrointestinal campylobacteriosis is caused by Campylobacter jejuni or Campylobacter coli. Although it is a commensal in the gastrointestinal tract of many species, it can cause diarrhea - mainly in young animals. It is most commonly seen in cattle, but may also infect many other species, including humans. Campylobacter is spread horizontally via the fecal-oral route.[1]
Campylobacter fetus can also cause venereal disease and abortion in cattle.[2]
Clinical signs and diagnosis
Calves normally suffer from a blood-flecked, thick, mucoid diarrhea. They may be pyrexic, tachycardic, or tachypneic and suffer weight loss. Adult cattle may show reproductive signs such as anoestrus, irregular oestrus patterns, agalactia, abortion, and infertility.[citation needed]
Campylobacter infection can be confirmed by rising antibody titers, culture on a selective medium, or histological examination. Specifically, C. fetus can be detected from cervicovaginal mucus using an agglutination test or ELISA.[citation needed]
Treatment and control
C. jejuni can be treated with the antibiotics erythromycin and tetracycline. The disease can be prevented with good husbandry and hygiene measures.[citation needed]
References
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