Contagious bovine pleuropneumonia

Contagious Bovine Pleuropneumonia (CBPP) is a highly contagious bacterial disease that affects the respiratory tract of cattle. Caused by Mycoplasma mycoides subsp. mycoides Small Colony type (MmmSC), it is a major concern for the cattle industry, leading to significant economic losses due to mortality, reduced productivity, and trade restrictions. The disease is characterized by severe cough, fever, and difficulty breathing, eventually leading to pleuritis and pneumonia.

Etiology

CBPP is caused by the bacterium Mycoplasma mycoides subsp. mycoides SC (MmmSC), which specifically targets cattle. Mycoplasmas are unique among bacteria in that they lack a cell wall, making them resistant to antibiotics that target cell wall synthesis.

Transmission

The primary mode of transmission is through close contact with infected animals. The disease spreads via aerosols produced by coughing or sneezing. Contaminated feed, water, and equipment can also play a role in the spread of the disease. The movement of infected animals is a significant factor in the introduction and spread of CBPP in previously uninfected areas.

Clinical Signs

Infected animals typically exhibit a range of symptoms including:

• High fever
• Severe cough
• Nasal discharge
• Difficulty breathing due to pleurisy and pneumonia
• Rapid weight loss
• In severe cases, death

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of CBPP is based on clinical signs, post-mortem findings, and laboratory tests. Laboratory tests include PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) for the detection of M. mycoides DNA, serological tests to detect antibodies, and culture methods to isolate the organism.

Prevention and Control

Prevention and control measures for CBPP include:

• Vaccination: Vaccines are available and are a key tool in the prevention of CBPP.
• Movement control: Restricting the movement of cattle from infected to uninfected areas.
• Quarantine and culling: Infected animals should be quarantined and, in some cases, culled to prevent the spread of the disease.
• Biosecurity measures: Implementing biosecurity measures on farms to reduce the risk of introduction and spread of the disease.

Impact

The impact of CBPP is significant, particularly in Africa, where it remains a major threat to cattle farming. Economic losses arise from mortality, reduced productivity, and the costs associated with control measures. Additionally, CBPP can lead to trade restrictions, further affecting the economy.

Eradication Efforts

Efforts to eradicate CBPP include international cooperation to improve surveillance, diagnosis, and control measures. The World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) provides guidelines for the control and eradication of CBPP.

See Also

• Mycoplasma
• Pneumonia in animals
• Veterinary medicine