Systematic Veterinary Bacteriology and Mycology

INTRODUCTION

Livestock are both the primary source and the target of various pathogenic or potentially pathogenic microorganisms. From birth to death, it is not possible to rear livestock in an environment that is really free of such organisms. Moreover, many body regions such as the digestive tract, gastro-intestinal tract and respiratory tract serve as additional sources of pathogens. Diseases are caused by a variety of bacteria, fungi, protozoa, virus and worms. An infection is caused by a disease causing agent or pathogen and results from the ability of the agent to invade and multiply in the tissues of a host. A disease, on the other hand, is caused by a pathogen’s interference with the normal functioning of body systems or organs. Several bacterial and fungal diseases of livestock are of great concern because of the ease with which they are transmitted and contracted.

The course Veterinary Bacteriology and Mycology (2+1) is organized into 36 chapters. Each chapter begins with a list of learning objects organized to help the student master the important terms, concept, techniques and applications. Within the chapter, detailed microbiology of bacterial/fungal pathogen and the diseases they cause are described in various subtopics which includes Systematics, History, Habitat, Classification, Morphology, Cultural characteristics, Biochemical characteristics, Resistance, Antigens, Toxins, Pathogenesis, Pathogenicity, Diagnosis, Control and Prevention.

Much attention has been given to incorporate the type of subjects for which color is important for recognition and understanding. The text includes number of learning aids such as photographs, animations and flow charts which are designed to help students absorb, apply and retain its content effectively. Specially developed PowerPoint presentations have been prepared for each chapter. These presentations described particular pathogen in detailed manner with illustrations.

Each chapter concludes with questions and glossary. These two devices serve as opportunities for students to apply and draw out the important concepts with principles concerned.