ANIMAL DISEASE ERADICATION – CATTLE TUBERCULOSIS (TB)

NCBA Staff Contact: 
Dr. Elizabeth Parker, Chief Veterinarian
202-347-0228
eparker@beef.org

Summary:
Over the past 50 years we have reached a point where the eradication of Tuberculosis (TB) is approaching a reality.  In this last phase of eradication, it becomes more difficult to detect and eliminate the last cases.  In the last several years, USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) has intensified surveillance of these types of animal diseases.  As a result, it is likely we will see additional cases of these diseases - not because the true disease prevalence is increasing - but rather because of increased surveillance.

There are concerns, however, that some wildlife may be affecting disease eradication more than previously thought, and this is under investigation.  The other issue we face is ensuring there are adequate indemnity finds available, so if a herd needs to be depopulated, it can be done quickly with the producer being compensated in a fair and equitable manner.

Background:

History illustrates that Tuberculosis is a very old disease with evidence that it has been present in human populations as far back as 7,000 years.  Dr. Robert Koch first identified and described organism that caused TB in humans in 1881. The strain that causes bovine TB is closely related to the form that infects people. Although it is also possible for the bovine TB strain to be transmitted from cattle to humans, the likelihood of it happening is rare. Milk would be the most likely method of transmission, and this is prevented by proper pasteurization. The low risk of transmission from consumption of beef is prevented through live animal and meat inspection and proper cooking.

The Cooperative State/Federal TB Eradication Program, started in 1917 and administered by Veterinary Services, state animal health agencies and U.S. livestock producers, has nearly eradicated TB from the nation's livestock population.  As of 2006, 46 States, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands are free of TB. 

The States of Texas, Minnesota, a zone in New Mexico, and a zone in Michigan are classified as “modified accredited advanced” and one zone in Michigan is classified as “modified accredited.” There are four confirmed affected herds in Minnesota, including one identified in 2005, and two in Michigan.

Key Points:

·         Over the past 50 years we have reached a point where the eradication of Tuberculosis (TB) approaching a reality. 

·         In recent years, APHIS has intensified surveillance of these diseases, which is likely to reveal additional cases - not because the true disease prevalence is increasing - but rather because of increased surveillance.

·         Wildlife may be affecting disease eradication more than previously thought and this is under investigation. 

·         Adequate indemnity finds must be made available so if a herd needs to be depopulated, it can be done quickly with the producer being compensated in a fair and equitable manner.

·         The Cooperative State/Federal TB Eradication Program, started in 1917 and administered by Veterinary Services, state animal health agencies and U.S. livestock producers, has nearly eradicated TB from the nation's livestock population.  As of 2006, 46 States, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands are free of TB.