media release

Colorado Department of Agriculture

www.colorado.gov/ag

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

November 3, 2009

Contact: Christi Lightcap, (303) 239-4190, Christi.lightcap@ag.state.co.us

Bovine Trichomoniasis Update

LAKEWOOD, Colo. – The Colorado Department of Agriculture sends regular updates for Bovine Trichomoniasis cases across Colorado:

• As of November 2, 2009, there are two trichomoniasis quarantines in Colorado.
• In 2009, nine Colorado counties have had trichomoniasis quarantines. (Baca, Elbert, Fremont, Lincoln, Logan, Mesa, Montezuma, Otero, and Rio Blanco)
• In 2008, 43 Colorado facilities in 18 counties had trichomoniasis quarantines.
• In 2007, there were a total of 14 counties with trichomoniasis quarantines.
• An updated map highlighting Colorado counties with trichomoniasis quarantines can be found at www.colorado.gov/ag.

“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.

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) 239-4161.

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