Caprine Arthritis & Encephalitis
The Caprine Arthritis and Encephalitis (CAE) virus causes infection in goats---both kids and adults. It has been found to infect all breeds and sexes of goat. It has no cure and remains with the infected goat throughout its life and affects milk production. It may be transmitted through infected milk or body fluids and is primarily transmitted during the early childhood of a goat. It is not transmittable to humans.
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Nomenclature
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This disease was first found in 1974 and was named as Viral Leukoencephalomyelitis of Goats, or VLG, as it was known to damage the nervous system. When studies were conducted later and it was further found that the disease was also one affecting the joints, it was re-named to Caprine Arthritis Encephalitis Syndrome. Today, the virus has been clearly identified and scientists have gained extensive knowledge on the disease and it is still know by the name of Caprine Arthritis and Encephalitis, or CAE.
Transmission of the Virus
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Studies conducted at the Washington Animal Disease Diagnostic Lab have shown that this disease is mostly transmitted to kids by means of an infected colostrum or milk during a kid's first feedings from its mother. Direct exposure to infected milk in dairies is also possible. Contaminated blood can be another reason, via infected needles or wounds.
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Clinical Symptoms
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According to research conducted at Washington State University, about 80 percent of the tested dairy goats were infected with the virus but only a small number of them had visible signs of it. Goats infected with the virus may never show any symptoms, but there are some clinical signs to look for. Progressively growing crippling arthritis, pneumonia, encephalitis and gradual loss of weight are some of them. There may be stiffness in the joints, swelling in knees and abnormality in position--all leading to arthritis. A progressive weakness resulting into paralysis is also possible.
Treatment
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Although there is no cure for Caprine Arthritis and Encephalitis, treatments can comfort the infected goats and provide an easier life to them. Regular foot trimming is one such treatment. Also, infected goats can be given easy-to-digest food, anti-inflammatory drugs and comfortable bedding.
Prevention and Control
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On the basis of the pattern of transmission of Caprine Arthritis and Encephalitis, there are a few steps that can be taken to keep the next group of kids free from the virus. This can be achieved by keeping them away from colostrum and feeding the kids on safe and frozen colostrum or pasteurized goat milk. They should all be tested regularly. Culling of infected ones is important here. In this manner, a new and healthy herd can be grown and infections can be reduced drastically. But all this requires careful organization and the plan should be executed assiduously, according to researchers at Washington State University.
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