Introduction

This online CPD course has been designed to provide easy access to up-to-date scientific information on genital campylobacteriosis in cattle. The course material has been developed by internationally recognized scientists on genital campylobacteriosis in cattle: Prof CH ANNANDALE, Associate Professor, Veterinary Specialist in Reproduction Department of Production Animal Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria,  South Africa, Prof DE HOLM, Deputy Dean: Teaching and Learning, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa and Prof PC IRONS, Veterinary Program Director, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Murdoch University, Perth, Australia.

Genital campylobacteriosis in cattle is caused by Campylobacter fetus venerealis. A related species, Campylobacter fetus fetus, is an intestinal inhabitant that may also be found in the genital tract. The disease is regarded as one of the most important causes of poor calving rates in cattle, and closely resembles the clinical appearance of infection caused by Tritrichomonas foetus. The two infections often occur together in herds.

The pros and cons of different diagnostic techniques and control/management strategies are discussed.

Who Should Enrol

Veterinary, para-veterinary and allied animal and human health professionals and students.

Course Design

Online CPD course

Course Content

Module 1.  Aerobic/micro-aerophilic, motile, helical/vibroid gram-negative bacteria (read text)

Module 2. Genital campylobacteriosis in cattle: Introduction, Aetiology, Epidemiology, Pathogenesis, Clinical signs, Pathology, Diagnosis, Differential Diagnosis, Control (2 CPD points)

Course Highlights

This online CPD course has been designed to provide easy access to up-to-date scientific information on genital campylobacteriosis in cattle for a wide range of learners with different interest in the disease.

Campylobacter fetus venerealis has a worldwide distribution. Genital campylobacteriosis in cattle occurs more common in production systems that make use of natural service. Aspects that contribute to reduced profitability of beef farming include smaller calf crops, prolonged intercalving periods, and replacement costs of infected bulls. Bulls can be either permanently or transiently infected. Campylobacter fetus venerealis strictly colonizes the superficial epithelium of the preputial and penile lumen and crypts, without producing clinical signs.

Clinical signs associated with campylobacteriosis are limited to cows and heifers, and even then, are often mild or inapparent. In female animals the genital inflammation (vaginitis, cervicitis, endometritis and salpingitis) and embryonal death result in prolonged oestrus cycles.  The infection in female animals is mostly self-limiting, with cure, and return to normal fertility, within three to five months. The main clinical manifestations of C. fetus venerealis infection are irregular oestrus cycles, delayed conception and sporadic abortions. 

The learner will be able to study and complete the course material and online test at his/her own pace.

Learning Outcomes

After completion of the course the learner will have a sound knowledge of genital campylobacteriosis in cattle and will be able to:

  • understand and discuss the most important features of the aetiology, epidemiology, pathogenesis, clinical signs, pathology, diagnosis, differential diagnosis and control/prevention of the disease.
  • point out the different sites of infections in bulls and cows/heifers, and the consequences of infections.
  • understand the economic importance of genital campylobacteriosis in cattle. 
  • discuss the differential diagnosis for genital campylobacteriosis in cattle. 
  • explain the collection, storage and shipment of specimens for diagnostic purposes and will have a good understanding of the different diagnostic tests that are applicable to confirm genital campylobacteriosis in cattle.
  • understand the pros and cons of the different strategies and other measures that can be taken in the prevention/control/eradication of genital campylobacteriosis in cattle.

Assessment

Some of the modules will have a multiple-choice test, while others are read for information.

Accreditation

Module 2: Genital campylobacteriosis in cattle         

South African Veterinary Council (SAVC)

2 CPD Points

AC/0392/20

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%.




2.0 General Points

2.0 Max Points

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