The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association has shared a pamphlet titled, “Johne’s Disease: Should You Be Concerned?” This is America’s beef and dairy producers’ guide to Johne’s Disease infection symptoms, preventative management programs and what to do if you suspect a problem in your herd. This explains the disease, its symptoms, preventative measures and how to keep your herd healthy. I think this is a nice reminder to help all of us keep our nation’s cowherd healthy and safe.

Recent surveys conducted by the National Animal Health Monitoring Service indicate 92 percent of beef producers and about half of all dairy producers are unfamiliar with the disease, if they’ve heard of it at all. In dairy herds, this disease is costing dairy producers more than $200 per cow in inventory each year, due mostly to decreased milk production and premature culling. Furthermore, at least 22% of the nation’s dairy herds have cows infected with Johne’s.

-Johne’s Disease is an infectious bacterial disease, primarily affecting the intestinal tract.
-Johne’s is a slow, progressive disease; infected animals may show no signs of the disease for years.
-Symptoms include long-lasting diarrhea, weight loss and weakness.
-Johne’s can be spread through bacteria in feces and from mother to baby in colostrum and milk.
-Bio-security measures aimed at reducing or eliminating fecal contamination of calves is the most powerful preventative tool available.
-Take action immediately if you suspect a problem. Education is crucial for preventing Johne’s Disease.
-Explore this resource for more information: USDA APHIS Johne’s Disease on U.S. dairy operations.