It has been estimated that between 1934 and 1998, $3.5 billion in federal, state, and private funds were spent on brucellosis eradication programs in domestic livestock (predominantly cattle) with an estimated benefit of greater than $18.3 billion; however, infections in wildlife species such as elk, bison, feral swine, and reindeer has facilitated disease persistence.
Mission
The Infectious Bacterial Diseases Unit investigates diseases of food-producing animals and selected wild animals caused by Brucella, Mycobacteria, and Spirochetes. Our mission is to develop and evaluate improved tests for the diagnosis of Johne's Disease and Bovine Tuberculosis in cattle and deer species, and Leptospirosis in cattle. In addition, development of vaccines and other control measures for the prevention of Johne's Disease, Bovine Tuberculosis, Brucellosis, and Leptospirosis in livestock and selected wildlife is emphasized. The cause and pathogenesis of Bovine Proliferative Digital Dermatitis also is investigated.