Johne’s Disease – Do You Know The Risk?

Breeding sales for this year will in the next month or so start to get going. Buying female replacements and stock bulls can be a risky business as Johne’s disease is often introduced to a herd by purchasing an infected animal.

The Johne’s status of a herd is categorised on a Risk Level basis with the lowest level being the best risk level to buy from. This risk level accreditation system means that buyers can see the risk of introducing Johne’s before they buy the animal.

Risk Level 1

The herd has had at least 3 clear annual herd tests. This is the lowest level of risk.

Risk Level 2

The herd has a current clear test and has had one or two clear annual herd tests but have not yet achieved level 1 status.

Risk Level 3

At the most recent test the herd had less than 3% of animals testing positive for Johne’s

Risk Level 4

At the most recent herd test more than 3% of animals testing positive for Johne’s

Risk Level 5

Herds who carry no testing for Johne’s. This is the highest level of risk.

For those herds in risk categories 1 to 4 a CHeCS Johne’s disease plan will be in place which is reviewed on an annual basis.

Buying from herds with a risk level status of 1 will lower the risk of buying in Johne’s disease. Remember levels 3 and 4 are testing positive for the disease.

If you are unsure about the health status of an animal don’t be afraid to ask the seller to clarify as one wrong assumption could have a negative effect on the health of your herd.

Sarah Balfour, sarah.balfour@sac.co.uk