On-Farm Bovine Pneumonia Testing Approaches: Myth or Miracle?

Bovine Pneumonia testing has always remained an issue of concern for vets as well as farmers because taking your animal to the vet establishment usually faces innumerable constraints of place, time, and finances. Yet, recent methods have taken a different kind of approach considering these constraints which are referred to as the “On-Farm” approach.

What is bovine pneumonia?

Bovine pneumonia is a respiratory disease that can significantly impact the health and productivity of a herd. It is caused by a variety of bacterial and viral agents, including Pasteurella multocida, Haemophilus somnus, and Mycoplasma bovis.

Common Symptoms of bovine pneumonia

Symptoms of bovine pneumonia can include

● Coughing

● Nasal discharge

● Difficulty breathing,

● Decreases appetite

● High-grade fever

● Hypothermia

If not treated on time, the eventual consequence is that the lungs are severely impacted by bacterial growth.

Classical Diagnosis

Traditionally, the diagnosis of bovine pneumonia has been based on clinical signs, as well as laboratory testing of samples collected from the respiratory tract. However, these methods can be time-consuming and costly, and may not always provide an accurate diagnosis.

The On-farm Bovine Pneumonia Testing Approaches

On-farm bovine pneumonia testing approaches offer a more convenient and cost-effective alternative for diagnosing this disease. These approaches involve collecting samples from the respiratory tract of affected animals and performing testing on the farm, rather than sending samples to a laboratory.

Source: iStock

The RaDiCal Program

The strategies to ensure effective testing on farms has been altered in the past. Presently, Global Access Diagnostics (GADx) has joined hands with the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC) to develop RaDiCal. This new approach is a combination of diagnostic testing kits and technology. It is believed that using testing kits at the farm and then using mobile phones for sample assessments using the PCR strategy is going to give real-time results which will increase the chances of survival among the young calves which are at a higher risk of infection.

● Rapid Antigen Testing Kits

One on-farm bovine pneumonia testing approach is the use of rapid antigen test kits. These kits utilize immunochromatography to detect the presence of specific bacterial or viral antigens in respiratory samples. The results of these tests are typically available within a few hours, allowing for prompt treatment of affected animals.

● PCR Technology

Another on-farm bovine pneumonia testing approach is the use of PCR (polymerase chain reaction) technology. This method involves amplifying specific genetic material from respiratory samples, allowing for the rapid and sensitive detection of bacterial and viral pathogens. PCR testing can be performed on portable devices that are capable of providing results within a few hours.

Are on-farm testing approaches legit?

Both rapid antigen test kits and PCR technology have been shown to be effective for the diagnosis of bovine pneumonia, with high levels of sensitivity and specificity. However, it is important to note that these methods may not always provide a definitive diagnosis, and additional testing may be necessary to confirm the presence of a specific pathogen.

The Advanced Pneumonia Testing Approach

In addition to rapid diagnostic testing, on-farm bovine pneumonia testing approaches may also involve the use of serological tests. These tests measure the presence of antibodies in the blood, which are produced in response to an infection. Serological testing can be useful for detecting past exposure to a specific pathogen, but may not always indicate the presence of active infection.

Significance of On-farm Bovine Pneumonia Testing Approaches

● Fast & Convenient

On-farm bovine pneumonia testing approaches can provide several benefits over traditional laboratory testing methods. They are faster and more convenient, as samples can be collected and tested on the farm, rather than being transported to a laboratory. This can also result in cost savings, as the need for transportation and laboratory fees is eliminated.

● Early Detection

On-farm bovine pneumonia testing approaches can also facilitate earlier detection and treatment of the disease. By providing prompt diagnosis and treatment, these approaches can help to reduce the spread of infection within a herd and improve the overall health and productivity of the animals.

Reliability on Multiple Hygienic & Health Standards

It is important to note that on-farm bovine pneumonia testing approaches should be used in conjunction with other disease control measures, such as proper vaccination, biosecurity, and hygiene practices. These measures can help to prevent the introduction and spread of respiratory diseases within a herd.

Source: USC Blog

Key Takeaways

In conclusion, on-farm bovine pneumonia testing approaches offer a convenient and cost-effective alternative for the diagnosis of this disease. These approaches can provide prompt diagnosis and treatment, helping to reduce the spread of infection within a herd and improve the overall health and productivity of the animals. However, it is important to note that these approaches should be used in conjunction with other disease control measures to effectively prevent and control respiratory diseases in bovine herds.