Latent infection of male goats with Mycoplasma agalactiae and Mycoplasma mycoides subspecies capri at an artificial insemination centre

Abstract

Contagious agalactia affects goats and is caused by several species of mycoplasma including Mycoplasma agalactiae and Mycoplasma mycoides subsp capri (Mmc) Male goats latently infected with M agalactiae and Mmc were identified at a dairy goat breeding artificial insemination centre In three samplings conducted over 1 year ear swabs were assessed for both of the above organisms using culture and PCR techniques Serological examination for antibodies against these organisms was performed at each time-point and conjunctival nasal rectal and preputial swabs were taken from a sub sample of animalsMycoplasma mycoides subsp capri and M agalactiae were detected in 80 and four ear swabs respectively and serology confirmed the presence of both agents A point prevalence of 006 goats infected with Mmc at the first sampling point increased to 0 97 at the last sampling suggesting spread of infection Both organisms were also detected in preputial and conjunctival swabs suggesting the shedding of these pathogens by other routes These findings should inform World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) guidelines on avoiding the introduction of such pathogens Into artificial insemination centres and suggest the need to review current recommendations (C) 2009 Elsevier Ltd All rights reserved