Johne’s Disease in Cattle

 
What is Johne’s disease?
Johne’s disease (Johne’s) is a non-curable bacterial infection caused by mycobacterium avium paratuberculosis which is present in 60-80% of cattle herds.
 
How is Johne’s transmitted?
Johne’s is transmitted through ingestion of manure and milk.
 
What are the signs of infection?
Infection usually occurs in calves, but they don’t show symptoms until they are approximately 3 years old.  Symptoms can include chronic diarrhea, decreased milk production, thin body conditions or unresponsiveness.
 
What are the testing requirements for Johne’s?
At this time there is no mandatory testing in Idaho.  All testing is voluntary, but if you are concerned about infection within your herd they should be tested.
 
Where can I get my cattle tested for Johne’s?
Contact your veterinarian to schedule testing.
 
What can I do to prevent Johne’s in my herd?
When you purchase cattle, make sure they are from herds that have been tested negative for Johne’s.
 
What do I do if my herd is positive?
USDA created an extremely informative booklet for help with control or eradication of Johne’s in an infected herd.  Although the program under which the information was compiled is no longer funded, there is valuable prevention guidance contained within the booklet as well as the last editions of the USDA Johne’s Disease newsletters for beef and dairy animals.  Further information on prevention, control or eradication of Johne’s is also available at www.johnes.org.
 
If you have a question that is not covered here, please contact Animal Industries by email or at (208) 332-8540.