Paratuberculosis

Paratuberculosis, also known as Johne's Disease, is an infection caused by the bacteria Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis. The disease affects a variety of mammals, including cattle, sheep, goats, deer, and wild animals, as well as humans. In animals, the disease is characterized by persistent diarrhea, emaciation, and eventual death. In humans, the disease is most commonly associated with Crohn's disease, a chronic inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract. The bacteria can spread through contact with infected animals or contaminated water, feed, and soil. Treatment, when possible, is primarily through antibiotics. In order to prevent the spread of the disease, herd management and quarantine practices should be used. Early detection and control are key to reducing the incidence of this disease.