Bovine TB Flashcards
What is the causative agent of bovine tuberculosis (bTB)?
Mycobacterium bovis (M. bovis), chronic bacterial infection of cattle
(Zoonotic, but not primary causes of TB in people)
How is bovine TB managed in infected cattle?
Cattle are routinely tested & positive animals are culled
What is the UK’s 25-year eradication strategy for bTB?
Divides areas into High Risk Area, Edge Area & Low Risk Area
Includes increased testing, badger culling/vaccination & biosecurity improvements
What are key biosecurity measures in the bTB eradication strategy?
Badger-proofing feed stores/troughs, risk-based trading & financial penalties for overdue tests
What are the main diagnostic tests for bovine TB?
Skin testing (SICCT): Uses 2 injections (avian & bovine tuberculin). Results classified as clear, inconclusive, or reactor
Blood testing (IFN gamma test): Used alongside SICCT in breakdown herds
Antibody test: Occasionally used as third-line test
Post-mortem inspection: All cattle inspected, with more detailed checks for reactors/restricted herds
How does vaccination help control bovine TB?
Reduces likelihood of offspring being infected when born to vaccinated dams
1/3 penetration with vaccination is adequate to reduce R<1
What are the challenges of using the BCG vaccine in cattle?
Provides protective effects but causes TB test reactivity
International trade requires TB testing in cattle
DIVA test (Differentiating Infected from Vaccinated Animals) is required for simultaneous vaccination & testing
How is BCG vaccination used in badgers?
Reduces lesion development & shedding, but doesn’t cure infected badgers
Requires trapping & vaccinating enough animals in social group to achieve herd immunity
What are key biosecurity measures for risk-based trading?
Pre-movement/post-movement testing
Use ibTB to assess TB risk
Isolate newly introduced animals
How can wildlife-proofing help reduce TB risk?
Ensure gaps are no more than 7.5cm wide/high
Secure feed storage areas (e.g. lids on bins, secure fencing)
Dig fencing into ground to prevent burrowing
Raise feed troughs/mineral licks off ground
What environmental measures can help control TB?
Store slurry for long periods before use
Spread slurry at least 2 months before grazing
Avoid sharing equipment for slurry spreading if possible
What is the five point plan to protect a herd from TB?
Restrict contact between badgers & cattle
Manage cattle feed & water
Stop infected cattle from entering herd
Reduce risk from neighbouring herds
Minimise infection from cattle manure
