Video 25 Ringworm
This is a common fungal skin infection, particularly in cattle. It is caused by the fungus Trichophyton verrucosum.
It can be spread by direct contact between animals. It is also a zoonosis where the spores can infect humans causing ringworm.
These spores infect the hairs and epidermis causing the clinical symptoms we see.
These spores can last for a long time in the environment, up to several years. While the disease is unsightly it causes very little animal health issues. It may affect hide quality and for me, it is always about asking why?
Is there a reason underlying that may be contributing to the outbreak of ringworm.
We typically will see younger animals infected. It may be due to their skin Ph being lower than adult cattle. I incorrectly said in the video that young animals skin pH was higher. We will also see more of the disease during the winter months when cattle are housed.
The symptoms are circular patches with hair loss. We tend to see these circular lesions around the head and neck of young calves. When disease begins it can spread around the body and in other animals in the group.
It is quite obvious when we see the clinical symptoms. We can also take hair plucks to confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment
It is well accepted that this disease can have a long period of symptoms without much clinical animal health issues. When cattle are turned out it is also accepted that sunlight will slow the spread down.
However, it is best advised to begin treatment once symptoms appear. topical antifungal treatments work well. Talk to your vet about options. Please use licensed products for this.
There is also an effective vaccine that can be used to treat or prevent the disease.
When it has occurred indoors a deep cleanse of houses between batches is advised.
Asking why?
When we see bad outbreaks in groups of cattle we must ask why it has occurred.
My experience is looking at other potential stressors is important.
Start with a nutritional audit and check feeding and BCS. Then review the mineral status of young animals in particular.
Other issues like viral diseases (pneumonia) must also be investigated. Review stocking densities in housed cattle and ventilation.
This is not a complete list of potential complicating factors but these are the common ones I have seen.
While ringworm is unsightly it is relatively harmless. It warrants prompt treatment and always asks why it has occurred. Remember it is zoonotic so great care should be taken when handling and treating animals. Yes, it is another time to be wearing gloves. Also, be aware of the risk of bringing fungal spores into the house on clothing.
Thought for the day
Follow your passion and never let anyone quell your enthusiasm for what you do. Passion is simply infectious.
Huge thanks to Nettex in helping support me in making this series for more information click the link here http://www.progiene-dairy.com/biosecurity/virocur
Effective against bacteria, moulds,fungi and viruses in the environment.