Updates in managing Salmonella Dublin

Salmonella Dublin, a host-adapted Salmonella serotype in cattle, has become substantially more prevalent in dairy and calf-rearing facilities in the U.S. and Canada since 2012. S. Dublin bacteria isolated from U.S. and Canadian farms commonly exhibit multidrug-resistant characteristics. This multidrug resistance substantially complicates the treatment and con­trol of salmonellosis due to S. Dublin infection. Because it is a zoonotic disease, S. Dublin infection in cattle also presents a potential risk to human health. In cattle, S. Dublin infection re­sults in high morbidity and mortality rates in young calves and decreases the performance of mature animals. Clinical signs usually include pneumonia, respiratory distress and hyperther­mia. Diagnosis is based on bacterial identification via culture or PCR assay, or serological testing. Treatment involves correcting dehydration and electrolyte imbalances and decreasing inflam­mation; the use of antimicrobials is controversial. Prevention and control are via enhanced biosecurity practices.