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Dynamics of tuberculosis in a naturally infected Badger population
Journal
Mammal
Review
Volume 18 Issue 1,Pages61-72 Published Online: 10Apr2008
Authors
C. L. CHEESEMAN†,
J. W. WILESMITH*, F. A. STUART* P. J. MALLINSON 1 1 Ministry of
Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, Worplesdon Laboratory, Tangley Place,
Worplesdon, Guildford, Surrey GU3 3LQ *Epidemiology Unit and Bacteriology
Department, Central Veterinary Laboratory, New Haw, Weybridge, Surrey KT15
3NB
Abstract
The dynamics of bovine tuberculosis infection in a
wild Badger population have been studied since 1981. Faeces are sampled
regularly to determine the distribution of infection in the study area.
Badgers in known infected social groups, plus the neighbouring groups, are
periodically caught and subjected to full clinical and bacteriological
examination to monitor the progression of infection within and between
groups of Badgers. The interim results of this study are presented and
discussed. During 5 years (1981–1985), the temporal spread of infection
between social groups in the study area was slow and restricted. Some
clinically affected Badgers have survived for long periods. Evidence of
infection in individual Badgers indicates that pseudo-vertical (mother to
cub) transmission may be important in the maintenance of infection in the
Badger population. There is also evidence of horizontal transmission by
bite wounding and aerosol infection. Badger mortality due to Mycobacterium
bovis infection was low, and the prevalence of infection in male Badgers
is greater than in females. The data accumulated so far show no apparent
relationship between Badger population density and the prevalence of M.
bovis infection, nor is there any evidence to support the hypothesis that
M. bovis infection acts to depress Badger population density significantly
below disease-free levels. Cattle and infected Badgers can co-exist for
long periods without the disease necessarily being transmitted to cattle.
Keywords
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