Salmonellosis in cattle: clinical, anatomo-pathological and bacteriological findings in Piedmont cattle herds (2002-2009)

Salmonellosis is an important infection both in animals and in human beings. About the spreading of Salmonellosis in Italian cattle herds, the available data are poor and sporadic if we compared them with ones obtained in other countries. If we consider that there aren't any structured national prevalence studies in Italy, a valid contribution for estimating the presence of the infection in bovine was offered by the activity of the Istituti Zooprofilattici Sperimentali network. In this context, it was interesting to describe clinical symptoms, gross lesions and further laboratory results observed in reported outbreaks from 2002 and 2009 in Piedmont Region, in order to show how Salmonella infection is an emerging disease in bovine and to remark that a correct diagnostic approach in abortions, neonatal diarrhoea and sudden death in adult animals must include the detection of this pathogen. Thanks to the simultaneous application of general and specific cultural test for Salmonella spp., infection was observed in 12 herds, totally 16 strains, respectively belonging to four different serovars (typhimurium, veneziana, dublin, derby). Salmonella detection in 11 calves and 3 fetus confirms the correct diagnostic approach in order to control the presence and the diffusion of Salmonellosis in cattle farms.