Bovine tuberculosis (TB) poses a significant threat as a zoonotic disease, with cattle being the primary source of infection for humans.
This chronic bacterial illness affects cows, leading to symptoms such as general sickness, pneumonia, weight loss, and ultimately, death.
The Ministry of Health highlights the challenge of detecting TB in cattle, emphasizing the importance for farmers to remain vigilant for unusual lumps or sores on their cows.
To test for TB while the animals are alive, the ministry recommends using the Caudal Fold Test, which involves injecting a small amount of tuberculin under the skin of the cow’s tail.
The disease primarily spreads when infected cows are in close proximity to each other, transmitting through coughs or tiny droplets from other sick animals.
To prevent TB in cattle, the ministry advises rearers to keep infected or at-risk cows separate from healthy ones, conduct regular TB testing, maintain clean and disinfected facilities, limit access to farms, restrict visitors, and promptly report suspected cases to veterinary authorities.
It is also essential for cattle rearers to ensure proper veterinary certificates when moving animals between areas.
Furthermore, to mitigate the risk of TB transmission between animals and humans, the public is urged to consume only pasteurized milk and milk products, avoid consuming raw or undercooked meat, minimize close contact with infected animals, and practice thorough handwashing and disinfection after handling animals or their by-products.
These measures are crucial for safeguarding public health and reducing the spread of TB between animals and humans.