Improved Test for Vibriosis in Bulls
Venereal diseases like trichomoniasis (trich) and vibriosis (vibrio) remain common causes of reproductive failure in cow-calf herds in western Canada. Unlike trich, there is no good diagnostic test available for vibrio.
A recently-completed research project funded by the National Check-off and Canada’s Beef Science Cluster studied polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests, which detect specific DNA sequences, as a potentially cost-effective and practical diagnostic testing strategy for identifying beef cattle with vibrio.
The research found that the PCR test is 85% accurate at identifying positive and negative bulls when sampled in the field. While not perfect, it is an improvement in what has been available to practicing veterinarians.
To learn more about this research, view the fact sheet.
Learn moreReproduction & Calving
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