Johne’s disease

Johne’s disease, serious infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium avium paratuberculosis. Although principally a disease of cattle, it can affect sheep, deer, and goats, and it occurs worldwide. Cows may not show signs of the disease for as long as a year after exposure to it.

Chronic diarrhea and loss of weight are prominent effects; a substantial drop in milk production also occurs. A diseased animal’s coat becomes rough and does not shed as usual; the skin dries. The disease is spread chiefly by ingestion of feed and water contaminated by droppings of an infected animal. Slaughter of afflicted animals is advocated as a control. Good management and sanitation are important control measures.