Introduction
This online CPD course has been designed to provide easy access to up-to-date scientific information on chlamydiosis. The course material has been developed by internationally recognized scientists on chlamydial infections Prof Nicole Borel (University of Zurich, Switzerland) and Dr David Longbottom (Moredun Research Institute, Edinburgh, Scotland).
In this course the reclassification of the family Chlamydiaceae is discussed resulting in the division of the original genus Chlamydia into two genera, Chlamydia and Chlamydophila, as well as the creation of five new species and changes in genus for three of the existing species. The authors pointed out that infection with these Chlamydia/Chlamydophila species results in the development of a variety of clinical syndromes depending on the species and strain of the organism, the host species, and the affected organ system (e.g. gastrointestinal, respiratory, reproductive and nervous systems, as well as the joints and eyes). Differences and similarities of the disease syndromes caused by the different Chlamydia / Chlamydophila species in small stock, cattle, pigs and horses and the zoonotic implications of chlamydial infections are emphasized.
Who Should Enrol
Veterinary, para-veterinary and allied animal and human health professionals and students.
Course Design
Online CPD course
Course Content
Module 1. Introduction: Rickettsial, chlamydial and haemotropic mycoplasmal diseases (read text)
Module 2. Chlamydiosis: Introduction, Aetiology and life cycle, Epidemiology, Pathogenesis, Immunology, Clinical signs, Pathology, Diagnosis, Differential Diagnosis (2 CPD points)
Course Highlights
This online CPD course has been designed to provide easy access to updated scientific information on chlamydiosis for a wide range of learners with different interest in the disease.
A wide range of hosts may be affected by chlamydial diseases, including horses, cattle, pigs, sheep, goats, birds and poultry. Recurrence of the disease and/or shedding of the organism can occur following stress or physiological changes such as oestrus.
The authors pointed out that infection with these Chlamydia/Chlamydophila species results in the development of a variety of clinical syndromes. The severity of disease can vary from subclinical to life-threatening, but the usual presentation is a mild to moderate clinical disease leading to persistent infections.
The learner will be able to study and complete the course material and online test at his/her own pace.
Learning Outcomes
After completion of the course the learner will have a sound knowledge of chlamydiosis and will be able to:
- understand and discuss the most important features of the aetiology/life cycle, epidemiology, pathogenesis, clinical signs, pathology, diagnosis, differential diagnosis and control/prevention of the disease.
- point out the differences and similarities of the disease syndromes caused by the different Chlamydia/Chlamydophila species in small stock, cattle, pigs and horses.
- understand the zoonotic implications of chlamydial infections.
- understand the economic importance of chlamydiosis in the different livestock species.
- discuss the differential diagnosis for chlamydiosis.
- explain the collection, storage and shipment of specimens for diagnostic purposes and will have a basic understanding of the different diagnostic tests that are applicable to confirm chlamydiosis in different livestock species and aborted foetuses and placental tissues.
- understand the pros and cons of the different available vaccines and other measures that can be taken in the prevention/ control of chlamydial infections.
Assessment
Some of the modules will have a multiple-choice test, while others are read for information.
Accreditation
Module 2: Chlamydiosis
South African Veterinary Council (SAVC)
2 CPD Points
AC/0189/20
Certification
In order to qualify for CPD points, the learner will be required to complete the course and pass the multiple-choice test with 80%.
