Description
This self-paced course examines the epidemiology, immune effects, and economic impact of bovine leukemia virus (BLV) in dairy and beef herds. It features a recorded presentation by Phil Durst of Michigan State University, outlining how veterinarians and producers can use ELISA and PCR testing, interpret proviral load results, and implement practical management strategies to reduce transmission and herd-level losses. Participants who complete the course and pass the quiz will earn 0.5 hours of veterinary continuing education (CE) credit through the University of Missouri College of Veterinary Medicine.
Syllabus
Description
Bovine leukemia virus (BLV) is widely prevalent in U.S. dairy and beef herds and often goes unrecognized because most infections are subclinical. This course features a recorded webinar presented by Phil Durst of Michigan State University. He reviews the epidemiology, immune effects, and economic impact of BLV and outlines practical testing and management strategies to reduce transmission and herd-level impact. (Recorded February 11, 2025)
Learning Objectives
Individuals who complete this course will be able to:
- Describe the subclinical nature of BLV in cattle herds.
- Explain how BLV affects immune function.
- Interpret ELISA and PCR results, including proviral load.
- Outline a plan to reduce BLV transmission and herd impact.
Course Content
This course contains:
- A recorded webinar and full transcript covering the topic
- A five-question quiz required for CE credit
- An optional course evaluation survey
Presenter: Phil Durst
Phil Durst is a field-based Educator with Michigan State University Extension with more than 30 years of experience working with farmers. He works statewide focusing on dairy and beef cattle health and production. Durst and a colleague initiated a project to improve employee management on farms and have published two papers in Journal of Dairy Science based on the results. They also co-edited a section of Large Herd Dairy Management, 3rd edition (2017) on employee management. Durst led the development of 20 articles focused on aspects of milker training for each issue in a year of Hoard’s Dairyman magazine, and then compiled a book of the collected articles called People and Parlors, available from Hoard’s. He is involved in projects to improve prevention of Bovine Leukemia Virus, Bovine Tuberculosis and mastitis and to examine antibiotic use on farms. He has spoken widely on agricultural topics including in Israel, China, Ukraine and Armenia. He has been recognized with numerous awards including the John Hannah Award for Extension Program Excellence and with the Michigan State University Distinguished Academic Staff Award.
Continuing Education (CE) Credit
This course is approved for 0.5 hours of veterinary continuing education (CE) credit by the University of Missouri College of Veterinary Medicine.
To earn CE credit, you must:
- View the full presentation or read the transcript
- Complete the 5-question quiz with at least 4 correct answers
- Download your CE certificate (instructions are provided in the module)
Please note: It is the participant’s responsibility to verify whether CE credit from an AVMA-accredited veterinary college meets the requirements of their state or licensing jurisdiction.
Course Evaluation
A brief, optional evaluation is available at the end of the course. Your feedback is valuable and helps us improve future courses.
Accessibility & Support
- All videos include closed captions and downloadable transcripts.
- For disability-related accommodations, contact MU Extension ADA Support
- Canvas Support: teachingtools@umsystem.edu
- Course Coordinator: Craig Payne
Accommodations
We all learn differently, and we want every student to succeed. University of Missouri Extension complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. If you have a disability and need accommodations in connection with this course, or you need materials in an alternate format, please notify your instructor as soon as possible so that necessary arrangements can be made.
MU Extension Equal opportunity, ADA institution information
Inclusive Course Design
This course was created with a wide range of learners in mind. The materials are designed to be accessible and support different ways of learning.
Technical Requirements
Minimum Technology
- A reliable high-speed internet connection (DSL or cable recommended)
- A computer with an up-to-date operating system (Windows, macOS, or Linux)
- A current web browser, such as Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, or Safari
- A processor speed of at least 1 GHz (or higher)
Technical & Digital Information Literacy Skills
- Ability to download, open, and save Microsoft Word and PDF documents
- Basic familiarity with Canvas features
- Use of basic computer peripherals: speakers or headphones for audio
Download the Canvas Student App to access your Canvas course from your mobile device.
For the best user experience, we recommend using Google Chrome (Safari for Macintosh). If you don't have Google Chrome installed on your computer, you can download it here.
If you have technical questions or need help, please email Canvas Support. You can find additional technical information on the Canvas website.
Course Completion
Upon completion of all required components, participants may download a CE certificate from within the Canvas course. If needed, a transcript of completed MU Extension online courses may also be accessed through your Catalog account.
