THE ROLE OF SAWDUST IN CATTLE MYCOBACTERIOSIS

The authors analyse the origin of a tuberculin-positive result on a la rge scale cattle farm. They have performed an epidemiological investig ation to identify possible sources of infection. Mycobacterium gordona e was isolated by The Hungarian Animal Health Institute from sawdust u sed as bedding of cows. Other possible origin has not been discovered. This is the first time to prove the role of atipic mycobacterias in t he cattle mycobacteriosis by demonstrating M. gordonae. The economical consequences of paraallergic reactions caused by husbandry and feedin g anomalies are: decrease of performance, isolation, diagnostic slaugh ter and the employees' extra examinations - all significant expenses. These costs are more substantial than the general epidemic control mea sures. Additionally, the tuberculosis free status can be endangered.