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Bovine Tuberculosis (TB)
Infectious DiseaseRespiratoryBacteriaBovineNew
Key Points
  • Bovine tuberculosis is a chronic disease caused by Mycobacterium bovis
  • It most commonly affects cattle
    • Zoonotic risk to humans through consumption of raw dairy products or close contact with infected animals
  • Mainly spread via inhalation of aerosolised respiratory droplets
  • Early disease is asymptomatic but is later seen as chronic wasting, cough, dyspnoea and lymphadenopathy
  • The Tuberculin Skin Test (TST) is used as a screening test to detect R and IR cows
  • Treatment is NOT performed and reactors are culled to protect both human and animal health
  • Regular testing, biosecurity and wildlife management are key to prevention
Differential Diagnoses
  1. Johne’s disease (Paratuberculosis)
  2. Enzootic bovine leukosis
  3. Chronic pasteurellosis
Overview
Aetiology
Clinical Signs
Diagnosis
Treatment
Prevention
Resources
Overview

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Aetiology

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Clinical Signs

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Diagnosis

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Treatment

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Prevention

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Resources

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Educational content only. This factsheet is for general veterinary education and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Not for use in an emergency — contact a veterinarian or emergency service. Full disclaimer →