Unveiling the Causes and Treatment of BTS Disease in Livestock
Livestock farming is a common practice worldwide, and it contributes significantly to the economies of many countries. However, the challenge of keeping the animals healthy has been a constant concern for farmers. One of the prevalent diseases in livestock is Bovine Tuberculosis Syndrome (BTS.) BTS is a chronic and contagious disease that affects cattle and other mammals such as deer, goats, sheep, and even humans. In this article, we will dive deeper into BTS, its causes, and the treatment options available.
What is BTS?
BTS is a zoonotic disease caused by the Mycobacterium bovis bacterium. It’s an airborne disease that spreads when cattle inhale droplets from an infected animal. The pathogen can survive in the environment for several weeks, and when ingested, it attacks the lungs, leading to chronic respiratory infections. BTS can also spread through contaminated milk, urine, and feces.
Causes of BTS
BTS is primarily caused by poor management practices in livestock farming. The disease can be infectious or non-infectious. Infectious causes of BTS in livestock include:
• Contact with infected animals
• Sharing facilities, water and feed troughs with infected animals
• Movement of livestock from high-risk areas
• Lack of proper hygiene
Non-infectious causes of BTS in livestock include:
• Poor nutrition
• Overcrowding
• Immunodeficiency
• Stress
Signs and Symptoms of BTS
BTS has a long incubation period, and it can take months or even years for clinical signs to appear. Some of the symptoms of BTS in livestock include:
• Chronic coughing
• Weight loss and reduced appetite
• Lethargy
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Difficulty in breathing
Treatment of BTS
Prevention is the best approach to BTS. Proper management practices, such as regular herd testing and biosecurity measures, can reduce the risk of transmission. Vaccinations for BTS are available, but their effectiveness varies. If BTS is confirmed in an animal, it must be culled immediately to prevent disease spread.
Conclusion
In conclusion, BTS is a chronic and contagious disease that has a significant impact on livestock farming. The disease is caused by the Mycobacterium bovis bacterium, and it spreads through inhalation or ingestion. Proper management practices such as regular herd testing, biosecurity measures, and vaccination can help prevent BTS. If BTS is confirmed in an animal, it must be culled immediately. Farmers and veterinary professionals have a crucial role to play in preventing and controlling BTS in livestock.
