Wyoming trichomoniasis testing updated

The Wyoming State Veterinary Laboratory (WSVL) has recently implemented changes to bovine trichomoniasis testing. The new changes include a more precise testing process at the state laboratory, and the new test is based on bovine tritrichomonas foetus RNA detection.

Bovine trichomoniasis samples in the state of Wyoming may only be collected by a bovine trichomoniasis-certified veterinarian, and any exceptions from the new guidelines must be authorized by WSVL and Wyoming Livestock Board (WLSB).

Wyoming

trichomoniasis control

Bovine trichomoniasis has been prevalent in many Western U.S. states for decades, and testing is the only way to confirm the disease’s presence. Infected bulls transmit bovine trichomoniasis during breeding, and the disease could have a negative impact on herd production. 

As a reproductive disease in cattle, it can be economically devastating for producers, particularly those operating a cow/calf operation. To combat bovine trichomoniasis in Wyoming, the WSVL has been providing testing for decades, and WLSB has also been regulating it very closely. 

WSVL has been diagnosing bovine trichomoniasis for producers throughout the state and several adjacent states before the state actually started to regulate the disease. 

Wyoming began its journey to control and eradicate bovine trichomoniasis in 2000 when it implemented Chapter 15, a state rule mandating the testing of eligible bulls. However, the disease has been in Wyoming since the 1970s. 

Before 2000, WSVL performed hundreds of tests annually, but since then, the number of tests has grown to thousands. 

Amid state testing, the disease still persists, and effective measures should be taken to control the disease in Wyoming, as producers are often only aware of the problem once the disease is well established in the herd.

Changes to

trichomoniasis testing

The Lactated Ringer’s Solution (LRS) is the new preferred sample collection media. The new test is based on tritrichomonas RNA detection. Benefits of the new assay include the ability to accept different submission media LRS, PBS, Diamond’s media and TF tubes. 

WSVL can provide, for a fee, pre-filled screw-cap tubes with LRS and appropriate packaging material. If preferred, WSVL can provide empty screw-cap tubes with packaging material.

According WSVL, collection tubes will only be accepted if the collection tube is a plastic tube with a screw cap. They recommend utilizing the pre-filled tubes provided by WSVL.  Glass tubes and tube stoppers are no longer acceptable, and any sample leaking will be discarded. 

Another major point in the collection process is ensuring sample quality and quantity are presented with a fully completed new trichomoniasis testing form for official testing, and all samples must be fresh and at room temperature or refrigerated, not frozen. 

New forms can be downloaded on the WSVL or WLSB websites.

WSVL also advises there is a longer acceptable transport time of up to five days from sample collection to receipt of the samples at WSVL and encourages planning sample submissions accordingly. Samples received after July 1 will be subject to charges according to the new fee schedule.

Melissa Anderson is the editor of the Wyoming Livestock Roundup. Send comments on this article to roundup@wylr.net.