A Review of Infectious Pathogens Causes of Reproductive Failures in Bull Sperm

Abstract

The objective of this paper is to review scientific evidence regarding infectious pathogens transmitted sexually in bulls with a focus on prevalence and diagnosis. Bull semen quality is one of the important keys to the success of artificial insemination (AI). According to the world organization of animal health (OIE), there are several pathogens that should be excluded in semen examination. The OIE International Animal Health Code, published in 1992, describes the accreditation of artificial insemination centers for export purposes, including the risks of infectious pathogens transmitted through semen. The pathogens have been classified as viral, bacterial and protozoal agents. Some of these agents can affect reproduction performance for instance, bull fertility and reproductive failures in cows inseminated. Hence the diagnosis of these pathogens is crucial factor to prevent infectious male infertility and diseases transmission.