BOVINE TB ZOONOSES; A REVIEW

Abstract

Bovine tuberculosis (TB) is a disease characterised by progressive development of specific granulomatous lesions or tubercles in lung tissue, lymph nodes or other organs. Bovine species, including bison and buffaloes, are susceptible to the disease, but nearly all warm blooded animals can be affected. Man is also susceptible to the disease. the highest risk groups being individuals with concomitant HIV/ AIDS infection. In Africa, human TB is widely known to be caused by M. tuberculosis; however, an unknown, proportion of cases are due to M. bovis. Consumption of unpasteurised milk and poorly heat- treated meat and close contact with infected animals represent the main sources of infection for humans. This review attempts to examine the impact of bovine TB on the health of animals and humans.