BOVINE NEOSPOROSIS: FROM BIOLOGY TO CONTROL IN DAIRY AND BEEF HERDS

Abstract

Bovine neosporosis, caused by Neospora caninum, is an important etiology of reproductive losses in dairy and beef herds, with significant economic impact. This literature review summarizes evidence on the parasite's biology, transmission routes, epidemiology, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, and control strategies in cattle. Transmission occurs primarily vertically, which maintains the agent in the herd, and horizontally from canines, the definitive hosts that disseminate oocysts into the environment. Sporadic or outbreak-related abortions—most frequent from the second to seventh month of gestation—are the main clinical manifestation. Serological methods (IFA, ELISA) are useful for population screening and risk assessment, while confirmation of abortions depends on the combination of histopathology, immunohistochemistry, and/or molecular detection. There is no field-proven curative treatment; Thus, control is based on biosecurity (restriction of dog access and appropriate management of placentas and fetal remains), reproductive measures (judicious use of embryo transfer, culling or non-breeding of females with compatible reproductive histories), and environmental risk management. Gaps persist in vaccine efficacy, mitigation of transplacental transmission, and standardization of cost-effective diagnostic algorithms. It is concluded that integrated and contextual approaches, combining surveillance, reproductive management, and biosecurity, are essential to reduce the disease burden.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56238/edimpacto2025.061-002