Bovine tuberculosis refers to a chronic infectious disease that primarily affects cattle but can also infect other domestic animals, wildlife, and humans. It is caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium bovis. The disease is characterized by the formation of tubercles or granulomas in various organs, most commonly in the lungs and lymph nodes. These tubercles are compact masses consisting of infected tissue surrounded by layers of white blood cells.
Bovine tuberculosis is primarily transmitted between animals through the inhalation of respiratory droplets containing the bacteria. It can also spread through ingestion of contaminated milk or meat, direct contact with infected animals, or via environmental contamination. Infected animals often exhibit symptoms such as weight loss, coughing, difficulty breathing, lethargy, and enlarged lymph nodes.
The disease poses significant economic and public health concerns. In agriculture, bovine tuberculosis outbreaks can lead to reduced milk production, weight loss, decreased fertility, and even death in affected animals. Additionally, it can result in trade restrictions and financial losses due to export limitations imposed by countries with strict tuberculosis control measures.
In humans, bovine tuberculosis can be transmitted through direct contact with infected animals or consumption of contaminated animal products. Although relatively rare, it can cause serious illness in humans, typically affecting the lungs. Common symptoms include a persistent cough, chest pain, fatigue, fever, and night sweats.
Controlling bovine tuberculosis requires a combination of measures, including regular testing of cattle herds, culling of infected animals, strict biosecurity protocols, pasteurization of milk, and public health awareness campaigns.
