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CDA offers weekly update on bovine infections across stateColorado The Colorado Department of Agriculture will be sending out weekly updates for bovine trichomoniasis cases across Colorado and is reminding cattle owners to monitor their herds for signs of the infection. "I encourage ranchers to get their cows preg-checked and bulls tested before turning them out," said Commissioner of Agriculture, John Stulp. "Colorado's cattle industry is a $2.6 billion business and it is important ranchers take an active role in preventing the spread of this infection." CDA will now send updated information to members of the industry, Extension offices, and the media each Monday. An updated map highlighting the number of quarantines and their counties can be found by visiting www.colorado.gov/ag and clicking on "Bovine Trichomoniasis." "Trich" is a costly, yet preventable, infection that can affect dairy and beef cattle. If bulls become infected, the percentage of open cows can increase from 5 to 30 percent. So far, in 2008, 13 Colorado facilities have been placed under quarantine for cattle testing positive for trich compared to six in 2005. Trich is a venereal disease of cattle caused by Trichomonas foetus (T. Foetus). The T. foetus infection causes fertility problems, such as early embryonic death or abortion of the calf, and is asymptomatic in bulls. Colorado trich regulations require all non-virgin bulls changing ownership or being transported into Colorado be tested for T. foetus unless the animal is going to slaughter. Bulls on public land grazing permits or with grazing associations must also be tested prior to turn-out. Several diagnostic laboratories across the state offer trich testing; samples must be taken by an accredited veterinarian and results will be available between four to six days. For testing questions call CDA Animal Industry Division at 303-239-416. 4/14/08 Date: 4/9/08 Advertisement
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