Descriptive Epidemiology of Bovine Tuberculosis in Michigan (1975-March 2010)

Lessons Learned

Abstract

Bovine tuberculosis (bTB), caused by the zoonotic agent Mycobacterium bovis, is a significant threat to Michigan livestock and wildlife. After the state was declared free of bTB in 1979, the disease re-emerged in wild white-tailed deer in 1994 and in cattle in 1998. The Michigan Bovine Tuberculosis Eradication Project was established in 1995. Partners in the project are the Michigan Department of Agriculture (MDA), Michigan Department of Natural Resources and Environment (MDNRE), USDA APHIS Veterinary Service, Michigan Department of Community Health, and Michigan State University. Tens of millions of dollars have been spent on the project. In cattle alone, $5.2 million is spent on herd testing annually. After 15 years of the project's eradication efforts, bTB remains a challenge. The purpose of this study was to conduct a descriptive epidemiological review of bTB in Michigan and to identify any information that may be useful in moving the project forward.