Cow disease prevention (tuberculosis)

Bovine tuberculosis is a chronic, contagious disease caused by *Mycobacterium tuberculosis*, which can affect both humans and animals. It is characterized by the formation of granulomas in various organs, leading to progressive weight loss, weakness, and eventually death. The disease has a long incubation period and can be difficult to detect early. There are three main types of *M. tuberculosis*: human, bovine, and avian. Cows are most commonly infected with the bovine type, which is a rod-shaped, acid-fast, Gram-positive bacterium that does not form spores or move. This pathogen can survive for several days in exudates, feces, or contaminated environments. Effective disinfectants include 2–3% sodium hydroxide, which can help eliminate the bacteria. The primary source of infection is infected animals, which shed the bacteria through respiratory secretions, feces, urine, milk, or other bodily fluids. Cows can become infected when they come into contact with these materials or consume contaminated feed or water. Poor management practices—such as overcrowding, poor ventilation, inadequate nutrition, and unsanitary conditions—can significantly increase the risk of transmission. Symptoms vary depending on the affected organ. Early signs may include a dry cough that becomes wet and painful over time, along with nasal discharge and increased breathing rate. In advanced stages, cattle may show weight loss, anemia, and reduced milk production. Breast tuberculosis may cause painless lumps in the udder, while reproductive tuberculosis can lead to infertility or abortions. Intestinal involvement may result in diarrhea, loss of appetite, and poor digestion. Diagnosis is primarily done using the tuberculin skin test. Two common types are Old Tuberculin (OT) and Purified Protein Derivative (PPD). For OT testing, the injection is given in the neck area, and reactions are observed at 72 and 120 hours. A positive reaction is defined as a skin fold thickening of 8 mm or more, while a suspicious reaction shows less than 8 mm but more than 5 mm. PPD testing follows a similar process, with results evaluated based on swelling and skin thickness. Prevention is key. Regular quarantine inspections, especially in spring and autumn, are essential. Infected cows should be culled, and asymptomatic ones isolated or removed. Proper sanitation, including disinfection with bleach or other agents, helps reduce spread. New cattle must be tested before introduction. Calves from infected mothers are separated early, fed colostrum, and retested at 20–30 days, 100–120 days, and 160–180 days. Only those testing negative can join healthy herds.

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