SOTA: Salmonella Dublin in Dairy Calves: An Emerging Disease with Many Unanswered Questions

Salmonella Dublin is an emerging challenge in the dairy industry, presenting unique concerns compared to other Salmonella serotypes. This host-adapted pathogen often causes systemic infections in dairy calves, leading to significant morbidity and mortality, with substantial economic and animal welfare implications. Unlike other Salmonella infections, S. Dublin is characterized by prolonged carrier states, vertical transmission, and its ability to evade detection through traditional diagnostic methods, complicating efforts to control and eradicate the disease.

This session will delve into the current understanding of S. Dublin in dairy calves, exploring its epidemiology, clinical presentation, and zoonotic risks. We will examine the unique transmission dynamics of the pathogen, including the role of subclinical carriers in disease spread, and discuss the challenges posed by antimicrobial resistance. Diagnostic approaches and their limitations will also be reviewed, with an emphasis on practical strategies for early detection. Furthermore, the session will highlight gaps in knowledge, including questions about vaccine efficacy, biosecurity measures, and long-term management strategies.