Farmers and managers across the UK are being sought for help from students’ research into the multi-million pound issues facing Johns’ disease, the cattle industry.
The short survey examines farmers’ views on John’s illness and some of the management practices used to stop the spread in the UK.
“We are a veterinary bioscience student,” said Rhian Masson. “My survey is trying to find out whether it will have a more broad impact on John’s prevalence across the UK and the attitudes of farmers towards John’s illness.
“I want to identify the weaknesses in the rationale behind failed disease control efforts.
What is Johns’ Disease?
John’s disease is a chronic, contagious bacterial disease with no known treatment. Therefore, good management and hygiene practices on farms are key to preventing their adoption.
A 2013 Agriculture and Horticultural Development Board (AHDB) report found that the disease would cost the UK cattle industry £13 million a year.
The disease has many effects, including reduced productivity, lower animal efficiency, and increased climate impacts, and reduced welfare of diseased animals.
This disease gradually damages the intestines of affected animals. In cattle, this results in heavy, persistent diarrhea, severe weight loss, loss of condition and infertility. The affected animal will eventually die inevitably.
In dairy herds, the presence of John’s disease significantly reduces milk yield before other signs of the disease are found.
The consequences of these effects will result in significant economic losses for farmers.
Farmers’ opinions are important for research progress.
“Farmers want to discover whether farmers need more support to tackle Jone’s illness, whether it’s financial or education,” explained Masson.
“For example, if the farm probably doesn’t adopt all the potential biosecurity measures to reduce illness on the farm, why?”
She added: “The small farms have been hit hard by these losses, and due to John’s illness, they could lose a smaller, family farm, leading to economic losses and reduced mental health for the farmers.
“My hope is to improve health, welfare and efficiency. Therefore, I will maintain the climate impact of dairy cows throughout the UK and support farmers while doing so.”
Dr. Tharangani Herath said it is very important for farmers to understand how farmers’ practices and attitudes affect Johns’ disease.
“Identifying barriers allows us to improve awareness, enhance diagnosis and develop targeted biosecurity strategies,” Herath said.
A short survey must be completed by the owner or manager of a dairy farm age 18 or older before February 28th.
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