JOHNE'S DISEASE

What is Johne’s Disease?

Johne’s Disease is an infectious bacterial disease of livestock that affects cattle, sheep, and goats.  No cure has been found for Johne’s Disease.

What are the signs of Johne’s Disease?

• Progressive, long-lasting diarrhea 
• Weight loss despite a good appetite
• Signs are rarely evident until 2 or more years after the initial infection (in cattle maybe sooner).
• Animals are most susceptible to the infection in the first year of life.

How is Johne’s Disease spread?

• Most common source of the bacteria that causes Johne’s Disease is feces or manure.
• The organism can remain alive in the environment for over a year.
• Feed tainted by manure containing the organism is the most common way animals become infected.
• Another source is milk from infected dams.
• Pond water and pastures contaminated with infected feces are other potential sources of infection.

Does North Dakota have a Johne’s Disease testing program?

• Please contact your local veterinarian or the State Board of Animal Health for more information on the ND Voluntary Bovine Johne’s Disease Control Program.
• For veterinarians certified in the Johne’s Disease program, the following links are to risk assessments and an agreement form for enrolled herds.

  *Beef Risk Assessment (Completed first year only)
  *Dairy Risk Assessment (Completed first year only)
  *Beef Risk Assessment (Completed 2nd year and every year thereafter)
  *Dairy Risk Assessment (Completed 2nd year and every year thereafter)
  *Standard Agreement (Completed each year)

Where can I find additional information on Johne’s Disease?

http://www.aphis.usda.gov/publications/animal_health/content/printable_version/fs_ahjohnes.pdf

http://www.aphis.usda.gov/publications/animal_health/content/printable_version/faq_johnes_cattle3-06.pdf

Who can I contact at the State Board of Animal Health for more information?

• Jesse L. Vollmer, DVM, ND Designated Johne’s Disease Coordinator, 701-328-2655
• Susan J. Keller, DVM, State Veterinarian, 701-328-2655