quick Johnes question

[milkmaid]

Anyone know how long the bacteria that causes Johnes can live outside the cow? My book says "an extended period of time" -- which could mean anything. LOL.
Thanks!

 

[Beefy]

many years.

 

[Carhartt_Hunny1]

don't know if this applies to you, Milkmaid, but here is an article about the genome sequence of Johne's disease. http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2002-11/uom-scg111902.php

 

[TheBullLady]

I don't know that it's ever been determined.. but there have been cases documented that show it CAN live in the soil up to 8-10 years. I believe there was a case up north with a dairy that had been shut down for years. Which is why it's so blasted dangerous to get it in your herd.. it may take a long time to get rid of it.

 

[milkmaid]

Wow.

With potentially up to 10 years...

now I understand why most folks are so careful about it. :shock: As far as I know, my "herd" is clean, but I sure don't need to introduce Johnes!

Thanks for the responses.

 

[Ronald Boggess]

I have had cattle since the 40's and I never realized the bacteria would stay active for that long. We are never too old to learn. Just out of curiosity, does anyone know when johnes first surfaced?

Ron

 

[msscamp]

I can't answer that question Ron, but you might find the answer at

http://www.johnes.org

 

[Ronald Boggess]

Thank you msscamp. I found what I was looking for. As usual, you were very helpful. It's folks like you that make this site informative and pleasant. Thanks again!

Ron

 

[born2run]

Heard recently that there is a connection between leukosis and Johnes. Can anyone expound on this? I've did some searching online and turned up nothing of any value.