Introduction
This online CPD course has been designed to provide easy access to up-to-date scientific information on coccidiosis. The course has been developed by internationally recognized scientists A. Joachim - Professor for Parasitology, Head of the Institute of Parasitology, Vetmeduni, Vienna, Austria and B.L. Penzhorn - Emeritus Professor, Department of Veterinary Tropical Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Onderstepoort, Pretoria, South Africa.
This is an excellent well-illustrated course with much new information including morphology and life cycle of different Eimeria or Cystoisospora species, pathogenesis, clinical syndromes, and pathology of coccidiosis in various livestock species, and pros and cons of available diagnostic techniques, management strategies and therapies in the control of the disease.
Course Highlights
Coccidiosis is a protozoal disease that occurs in many mammalian and all domestic livestock species. The disease is relatively common in sheep, goats and cattle and occurs mainly in young animals, although all age groups can become infected and shed parasite stages. It is caused by infection with numerous species of the genera Eimeria or Cystoisospora (syn. Isospora).
Coccidiosis occurs universally but is most prevalent where animals are subjected to overcrowding, unhygienic environments, or where other stress factors are present. Coccidiosis is essentially a disease that is prevalent in young animals under intensive management systems. Older animals are rarely affected although they may serve as clinically inapparent shedders.
Factors that play an important role in the pathogenesis of the disease include the pathogenicity of the coccidia species concerned, amount of oocysts ingested, age and disposition of the host, location of the parasite in the tissues and the presence or absence of acquired immunity.
Application of the principles of management, hygiene and chemotherapy that play a role in the control of coccidiosis are discussed. Anticoccidial compounds are used either prophylactically or therapeutically. The most important anticoccidial drugs for use in cattle, sheep, goats and pigs are reviewed.
Course Content
Module 1. Introduction: Coccidia (read text)
Module 2. Coccidiosis: Introduction, Aetiology/Life cycle, Epidemiology, Pathogenesis, Clinical signs, Pathology, Diagnosis, Differential Diagnosis and Control (2 CPD points)
Course Design
The learner will be able to study and complete the course material and online test at his/her own pace.
Learning Outcomes
In order to qualify for CPD points, the learner will be required to complete the course and pass the multiple-choice test with 80%.After completion of the course the learner will have a sound knowledge of coccidiosis and will be able to:
- understand and discuss the most important features of the aetiology/life cycle, epidemiology, pathogenesis, clinical signs, pathology, diagnosis, differential diagnosis and control of coccidiosis.
- point out the differences and similarities in the life cycle/epidemiology of coccidiosis caused by different Eimeria and Cystoisospora species in different livestock species.
- recognise the different clinical syndromes of coccidiosis.
- discuss how best infections by Eimeria and Cystoisospora species can be diagnosed and differentiated from each other and other coccidian parasites.
- understand the pros and cons of different diagnostic tests and therapeutics that are available to diagnose and treat animals.
- understand the principles of management, hygiene and chemotherapy that play a role in the control of coccidiosis.
Assessment
Some of the modules will have a multiple-choice test, while others are read for background information.
Accreditation
South African Veterinary Council (SAVC)
2 CPD Points (Module 2)
AC/2244/19
Certification
In order to qualify for CPD points, the learner will be required to complete the course and pass the multiple-choice test with 80%.
