Johne's Disease (JD), caused by Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis (MAP), is a chronic, incurable infection that affects the intestines of ruminants, including cattle. The disease leads to severe weight loss, decreased milk production, reduced fertility, and ultimately death.

 

JD is a significant concern for both dairy and beef producers due to its insidious nature and long incubation period, which makes it difficult to detect in the early stages. it is estimated that U.S. dairy farms suffered annual losses of approximately $250 million to $350 million due to JD. This figure includes lost milk production, increased culling, veterinary costs, and management expenses. Beef production losses due to JD from 2020 to 2023 are estimated at $100 million to $150 million annually. This includes reduced carcass value, increased culling rates, and management costs. The U.S. cattle industry must remain vigilant in controlling JD to mitigate its long-term impact on production and profitability.