Abstrakt

Review on infectious bovine keratoconjunctivitis

Feyera Gemeda Dima*, Tamene Fikedu

Infectious Bovine Keratoconjunctivitis (IBK), sometimes referred to as 'pink-eye' or New Forest disease, is a highly contagious condition affecting the superficial structures of the eyes. This disease is most commonly caused by Moraxella bovis. The main aim of this seminar is to review on the general aspect of infectious bovine keratoconjunctivitis. Infectious bovine keratoconjunctivitis is considered the most important ocular disease in cattle production, due to the decreased growth performance of infected individuals and its subsequent economic effects. This ocular disease is characterized by excessive tearing and ulceration of the cornea and perforation of the cornea may also occur in severe cases. Cattle of all ages are susceptible and ource is carrier cattle, with transmission by mediate contagion and by flies. The disease is more common in summer months and Bos taurus breeds appear to be more susceptible to infection than Bos indicus breeds. The current treatment and prevention measures can be unrewarding and often do not circumvent the economic losses. Despite the efficacy of antimicrobial therapy, treatment of affected cattle has many disadvantages and prevention of infectious bovine keratoconjunctivitis through application of appropriate management, control of the vectors and vaccination plays a vital role in combating the disease is preferable. Even though the presence of disease has been reported in Ethiopia, yet no consideration has been given for this disease. Therefore, Studies should be conducted to determine the prevalence, incidence, economic impact and the disease status in Ethiopia.