DIAGNOSTIC TESTING FOR Mycobacterium bovis IN NONDOMESTIC HOOFSTOCK

摘要

Mycobacterium bovis is typically the agent of tuberculosis in hoofstock. In the past 20 yr, M. bovis infection has occurred in ungulates in at least 20 U.S. zoos. The American Zoo and Aquarium Association and the American Association of Zoo Veterinarians have recommended testing for tuberculosis; however, prior to 2001, no standard testing protocols had been implemented. Federal regulations have only required testing prior to interstate shipment of federal eradication "program species", including domestic cattle, bison, and cervids. With few exceptions, diagnostic tests have been validated only in these program species. The National Tuberculosis Working Group for Zoo and Wildlife Species was formed to address issues regarding tuberculosis in zoos, circuses, and other animal collections and this group has recently drafted guidelines for tuberculosis surveillance, including recommendations for testing.