PITS 12.2: Expert's View on Mycoplasma bovis, Resistance, and Prevention with Jade Bokma (EN)
Pathogens in the Spotlight (EN translated)
In this episode of 'Pathogens in the Spotlight', founder Sebastiaan Teuns speaks with Dr. Jade Bokma, a cattle veterinarian and Mycoplasma bovis expert. After her PhD on M. bovis at Ghent University, she now combines her academic knowledge with practice, where she is developing the R&D branch and the lab at Dierenartsenpraktijk Venhei.
They dive deep into the diagnostics of the elusive Mycoplasma bovis. Dr. Bokma discusses the pros and cons of different methods, from slow culture to the interpretation challenges of PCR, which can remain positive for a month after treatment. The conversation also touches on other mycoplasmas, like the very common M. dispar, and the question of whether these bacteria might have virulent strains.
She discusses the increasing resistance to macrolides and how the bacterium 'hides' during chronic infections, leading to the typical otitis (ear infection) in calves. Prevention is focused on breaking the cycle, as the bacterium is transmitted via milk. Finally, they look at the future of the cattle industry, where the drive for antibiotic reduction only increases the need for rapid diagnostics to distinguish viral from bacterial infections. Tune in now for an expert analysis of one of the most difficult pathogens in cattle practice.
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